HHS Approves Michigan Welfare Demonstration Modification
HHS Secretary Donna E. Shalala today approved a modification to the Michigan welfare demonstration program, "To Strengthen Michigan Families." This action amends the demonstration that was originally approved in August 1992.
"The expansion of the Michigan program continues the Clinton administration's commitment to providing states with the flexibility to promote self-sufficiency for welfare recipients," said Shalala. Under the amended demonstration, individuals will be required to participate in either the Job Opportunities and Basic Skills Training Program (JOBS) or Michigan's "Social Contract" activities that encourage work and self-sufficiency. Michigan will also test the requirement that Aid to Families with Dependent Children applicants participate in job search, by actively seeking employment while eligibility to AFDC is being determined.
Furthermore, the amended demonstration requires that pre-school-age children be immunized and also disregards the value of one vehicle in determining eligibility. Additionally, in two counties, Michigan will evaluate mediation services to ascertain if this increases compliance with child support.
"The approval of the Michigan demonstration provides another opportunity to test state efforts to improve the AFDC programs," said Mary Jo Bane, assistant secretary for children and families. "I look forward to seeing the results of Michigan's program."
The demonstration will extend previously approved waivers until October 1999. It will include a rigorous evaluation.
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Contact: Michael Kharfen (202) 401-9215
