HHS News Release

HHS Secretary Donna E. Shalala today approved an expansion of Ohio's welfare demonstration project, "Learning, Earning, and Parenting Program" (LEAP). This is the second waiver demonstration approved for Ohio under the Clinton administration.

"Preliminary results of a recent study showed the growing success of Ohio's LEAP. This expansion builds on its accomplishments by adding a new emphasis on work," said Secretary Shalala. "Ohio's education, training and work activities will equip young people to achieve self-sufficiency."

The modified LEAP demonstration program will be operated statewide. Under LEAP, the state requires Aid to Families with Dependent Children recipients who are either pregnant or parents under the age of 20, to attend school or a program leading to a high school diploma or equivalent. This modification allows LEAP participants to meet this requirement through approved training or work activities, if educational activities are not appropriate. Bonuses, originally included in LEAP, now include a one-time $62 grade-completion bonus for each subsequent grade (except grade 12) completed in high school or alternative school. A one-time $200 bonus will be granted to those who graduate from high school or obtain a GED. Fiscal sanctions will be imposed for non compliance.

"LEAP emphasizes President Clinton's principle that young people should stay in school, get an education and enter the work force," said Mary Jo Bane, HHS assistant secretary for children and families. "The demonstration encourages individual initiative, rewards performance and provides incentives to young people to ensure that welfare will not be their way of life."

The waiver will be in effect for six and one-half years and will include a rigorous evaluation.

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Contact: Michael Kharfen (202) 401-9215