Panel Passes First Bill In Welfare Reform Plan

Gov. Phil Batt’s welfare reform package took another step forward Monday when a House committee approved the first of eight reform bills.

The reform package would require people to work, either unpaid or as on-the-job training, in order to receive cash benefits. The package’s main proposals already have passed in the Senate.

The first bill considered by the House Health and Welfare committee would provide working welfare recipients with workers’ compensation insurance. The Department of Health and Welfare would pay the premiums and be responsible for assessing losses.

The committee, including Rep. Carol Pietsch, D-Sandpoint, Rep. Jeff Alltus, R-Coeur d’Alene, and Rep. Tom Dorr, R-Post Falls, voted unanimously to send the bill to the House floor.

A bill to make parents on both sides responsible for their minor children’s children was held until Wednesday, when further hearings will be held.

, DataTimes