*This is an archive page. The links are no longer being updated.
1994.10.05 :  Michigan Welfare Demonstration

Contact:  Michael Kharfen     (202)401-9215
Wednesday, Oct. 5, 1994


     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.

                                ###