If this is good for the every day Joe then I want to see ALL of the company's that get gov hand outs and tax brake picking up trash and Scrape gum off side walks....Whats good for the goose
Dan Zappala - 11 years ago
Ingy is a stupid loser, but thankfully took the time to prove the system is rife with thieves. A coward to not put his/her real name and hopefully falls prey to this WONDERFUL AND ABOUT TIME PROPOSAL. I for 1 would love to watch people like Ingy wither and die. My taxes should go toward paying the deficit, not to losers who won't contribute. It is sad to need welfare and welfare should be there for the truly needy. Anyone content to live off welfare and public assistance HAS to be a loser, especially while living in the Land of Opportunity.
Molson - 11 years ago
This is a great way to allow people who do feel down and out, now feel productive, and maybe feel they have a small purpose to get up in the morning. Human nature does not allow us to feel good about being on welfare or unproductive. I believe, over time with giving of their time, they will see that they can make a difference in their small way. I think it is a great idea and will hopefully make a difference in the welfare state's lives, for the ones that really should not and do not need to be on this system.
SJ - 11 years ago
This looks very reasonable. I think this should be implemented in all 50 states. - From a Liberal Leaning, ProBusiness American. Everyone needs to get up and take action and I think volunteering for assistance is a great idea. And no I do not think the distraction about busing or driving them to work is necessary. There are many ways to volunteer and our communities need us to get up and take action, not allow the old ways of the past (last 20 years) continue. Thank you for this article and the comments that follow. Again, I think this should be implemented in all 50 states.
Ray Burke - 11 years ago
An unusually good collection of comments. I agree with the majority. No work, no goodies. No drugs, booze,
cigarettes, etc. Only basic groceries. No fancy stuff. No cash in exchange for food stamps or other welfare
coupons or vouchers. Housing rent will be paid directly to the provider. Child support will be limited to no more than two children per family. Many other aspects of our welfare mess must be considered as well. Welfare kings and queens must be found out and declared ineligible for further assistance.
Jennifer - 11 years ago
So long as it enables and doesn't institutionalize I think it's a great idea.
No more than 4 hours a day with plenty of time to job search, make contacts or work on starting their own business with incentives & help for those to start businesses that gainfully employ others with additional help the first rough year of start up.
That way is fine.
Just forcing people to work for the government then giving them lesser pay, no benefits & no ability for growth and calling it "unemployment welfare" I do NOT agree with. That's just slavery but letting them stay in their homes instead of plantations.
Bob Kertesz - 11 years ago
Why not implement a CCC (civilian conservation corp) type a workforce. It worked during the the depression years, 1934-1942. It put un-empluyed young men to work. Fixing roads, Cleaning streets and other types of labor. As far as transportation, there could be central pick up points where a govt. bus would pick them up, and drop them off after work. It would keep young men off the streets, and they would and necessary work would get done.
ESTEBAN - 11 years ago
Tomas Marny aka 'jackazz" printing money also takes it out of your pocket because printing more money reduces it value!!! what a moron and he thinks he's got a high iq. your head sure is big, but not from brains!
Trish - 11 years ago
Our economy is in shatters - people have stopped looking for jobs - because there are no jobs - it is not because they do not want to work. Now Obama has changed the definition of full time work - its 30 hours - so now people will be offered 29 hour a week jobs - no benefits - and if your lucky you can find a few jobs to make ends meet - you won't see your family - taking care of ones kids will become more difficult because of coordinating work schedules between several jobs - people will be running around like chickens with their heads cut off just to survive. There is nothing wrong with incentives to get people out there to find a job - but it is foolhardy to pretend that things have not changed in the last 5 years - and people who would like to work cannot find jobs - people who did everything right - got an education - are now living in their parents' basement - So for those of you who are lucky enough to have a job - do not assume that you will not soon be in the position of those you are criticizing. Obama won a second term - and we will all suffer under his vision for our country, our elected officials being more interested in themselves and a general malaise that they think they know what is best and indeed better for us. This problem will solve itself when the economy turns around - and until it does - do not judge those who are suffering under the consequences of Washington's policies and the choices we all make at elections - albeit - we are not given much of a choice - those who want to serve - want to serve themselves.
Bud - 11 years ago
Think of the benefits these people will receive. By volunteering you develop a social network, and skills that can connect you with a real job. You can have the opportunity to get some exercise. Currently, If you are unable only sit in a chair the state should pay to put you into an exercise and rehabilitation program to get you back into shape. Heck the program could even be run by OTHER healthier welfare recipients.
Sue Smith - 11 years ago
Please send the poll results to State Sen. Vincent Gregory, D-Southfield.
Any where in US there is a need for community volunteers. And there is are not time requirements. Local hospital exist because of volunteers. Helping seniors. Crossing guards to help young kids cross the streets. Sitting with the elderly. Billions of opportunities that do not require travel or a lot of time.
A hard working volunteer could open doors for themselves in the future.
Guido V - 11 years ago
It's about time ! Let them clean the roads, graffiti, etc. 2 1/2 days p/wk. Meet at 6:00am til 1:00pm. They don't show up, they don't get government benefits.
Then watch the rolls drop & all the "Help Wanted" signs come down.
Hey, BigD! Excellent points. Come on over to my GoogleGroups.
Fat Tulip - 11 years ago
Hang on a minute! If they're working then pay them in full. Problem solved. Turn that voluntary vacancy into a paid vacancy! Of course, this has nothing to do with self esteem or any of the BS platitudes that accompany BS schemes like this. It's all about getting people to work for less than the minimum wage legally and this is how to do it. Slavery ain't dead, folks.
BigD - 11 years ago
Who is going to transport them back and forth for community service? Even if they have a car, who is going to pay the gas for them to drive back and forth 3 or 4 days a week? Not everyone lives in a large city with public transportation, a lot of Michigan is still very rural, with jobs community service related or not being 30+ minutes away.
Also who is going to pay for child care while they are at "work"?
The whole part about drug testing is a big FAIL. Just look at Florida, how did that work out for them? Come on people think about these things please, every time the great and wonderful gubberment tells anyone what to do, it ends up costing tax payers even more money. So now you want me to buy them a car and pay for their gas to drive back and forth to what is sure to become a make work job with little or no chance of employment?
You can tell yourselves all the feel good stories you want about so and so got a job from community service, but actually think about how many people we are talking about here and you will realize that the vast majority of them are going to be standing around doing nothing, while we pay gas, car , and child care expenses for them to do so. That's not to even mention the possibility of corruption with this idea, holy cow. USE YOUR FREAKING BRAIN PEOPLE.
Well. Folks, step back from the problem and the need to defend your positions and think about the Unintended Consequences of this bill. Anyone other that libtards (B..B..BUT THE FASCIST RACIST KKKONSERVATIVES) and conservatards (B..B..BUT THE COMMIE ANTIAMERICAN LIBERALS) are invited to join me for a rational discussion at a GoogleGroups I've just created at https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/michiganworkfaredebate.
Joseph Stockham - 11 years ago
Doing Community Service for TANF (welfare) is going strong in the Commonwealth of Kentucky! All clients that recieve cash assistance must meet participation by doing either 20, 30, 35 or in the case of 2 parent households 55 (combined) hours of participation per week.
This is not a punishment, but a way for a client to feel that they are being productive, pick up additional job skills and allow them to fill in gaps in their work history. These community service positions do lead into paid employment in many cases. I've seen clients doing community service hired in to full time positions by not only non-profits, but with State and County Govenment agencies as well.
If someone should disagree with this then maybe they should dontate more of their hard earned income to allow people to stay home and receive benefits for as long as they want.
daf62757 - 11 years ago
The democrats will never stand for this. Their voters depend on them for free handouts without any strings....well except to vote for the most corrupt and lying politicians on the planet....which apparently is a very small price to pay for free food, welfare, and housing!
jtremain - 11 years ago
How about drug testing, proof of citizenship and tokens to redeem for necessities vs. cash payment.
The welfare state (socialism) is broke and dead. Detroit is leading the way.
Jerry Gregoire - 11 years ago
Being on welfare destroys self esteem and value however, sometimes assistance is necessary. Volunteerism conversely lifts people up, both the giver and receiver.
Sherri - 11 years ago
Great Idea, however, Eric Holder and the Dems will step in and rule against it.
Ryan - 11 years ago
Ingy, your stupidity is outstanding. If 'we' normal hard working individuals did not exist, your lazy good for nothing azz wouldn't either.
Catch 22 but sorry I want to live a wonderful life. I can only wish this country will change direction and give you two choices: To work and live or starve and die.
Good luck with that one.
Tom - 11 years ago
If this bill passes, Indiana and Ohio will have to build a fence.
Chaz54 - 11 years ago
If this were to pass, I for one would be relieved that maybe, just maybe, our great country does have a future as common sense appears to be associated with a government enacted piece of legislature.
phyllis dunne - 11 years ago
"Should people be required to perform community service to receive welfare benefits?" hmm, well lets see, am I required to work to receive benefits that fund welfare recipients? YES, so they should be required to work for them as well don't you think?
Maybe they can alleviate some of the burden placed on us working folk for having to pay for yet another service if they worked at it as part of community service. Gee what a novel idea!
And the people who truly need welfare funds because they are going through a rough stretch for one reason or another, would be proud to work for the funds. The ones you'll get the complaints from are the same ones that are likely abusing and playing the system.
Buck Ofama - 11 years ago
These lazy fvcks ought to learn about the people of the dust bowl, many of whom were TOO PROUD to take free handouts from the gubmint. But when handed a shovel for the "make work program", many were glad to work, and it saved them from starvation. We ought to let these modern day lazy assh0les STARVE.
Dunk - 11 years ago
This should be done, at a minimum. It's pretty much what ALL government workers do, if you truly think about it. They should up for a make-believe job and we pay them tax money for showing up. They return a fraction of it to the government, but by-and-large, public employees aren't really employees. How can you be an "employee" for an institution that doesn't really create anything. They are getting paychecks and showing up. The only way this works is if you have enough people or true corporations in the private sector paying the taxes to make it all work.
Wild Bill Kelso - 11 years ago
Wow, Ingy's been super brainwashed. Geez, somebody give that person a hug.
Notice how Democrats like to paint ALL welfare recipients as lowest of the low. And thus it's unconscionable to make ANY recipient show reciprocity in any fashion for the help they receive.
The reality is, Democrats believe in dependance. Take away a man's conscience to earn his keep, and you have a nation of slaves for your beckoning.
Machtyn - 11 years ago
For Jeff: You ask a very good question: "What about the sick?" My answer for that is there is always something to do. Volunteer work doesn't necessarily mean get out of the house and reclaim a park, build a house, or feed the homeless. Sometimes it is paper work, sorting, mailing, that kind of thing.
The LDS church has been doing this kind of thing for YEARS. And, as it happens, Salt Lake City is at the top of the list when it comes to people being on welfare back to work stat for years. (Not saying that the LDS church influences government, but when a poor person seeks government assistance, they will also seek assistance from the Church in their area.)
Brad Karr - 11 years ago
Don't leave the work schedule up to the Human Services Department. Set guide lines for such things as minimum hours and types of work. Baby sitting a cat doesn't work.
Pulpmillguy - 11 years ago
Fuc$$n - A...this is a LONG time coming and it should have been implemented a long time ago. Say good-bye to the free ride and HELLO to reality.
The problem with the "entitlement" crowd is that they have been fed little bites of BS from the government and MSM for so long that they actually believe it.
I just hope this trend catches on throughout the country.
norman west - 11 years ago
long time overdue. this needs to expand throughout the usa and also sterilize them after 2 kids. cant do the fathers because these breeeders have 15 men on the side.....
jeff - 11 years ago
As a matter of fact, if that is the case, and they are going to do that, why don't we require all government employees....all federal....to be drug tested to see if they should receive their checks or not....oh, I'm sorry, "they didn't inhale"....right! LOL
Jeff - 11 years ago
Yes, able bodied people should be able to contribute by doing community service or something, but what about the disabled or older ones...the government takes, and doesn't give it back once they get it...this is very intrusive. So I voted no...I don't trust the government....left or right! thank you for asking......
Joe - 11 years ago
Our President has been saying everyone has to have "skin in the game" for years. But as soon as this proposal is put on people getting checks from the government, and of course vote for Democrats they backpeddle. The hypocrisy of the Left never ends.
Lisa - 11 years ago
I see no problem with this. I have to work to earn my money at my job. If I don't show up - I don't get paid. All this bill is asking is for people to perform some type of community service to receive the handout. When I was between jobs several years ago - instead of getting a handout, I volunteered full time and burned through my savings. The job I got was a direct result of my volunteer work. I got to know the people in the organizations, found out about job opportunities and the organization got to see my work ethic and skills prior to hiring me. This is a good plan and I support it 100%. I still volunteer in my free time because the experience enriched my life. Volunteering is never a bad thing. My volunteer experience enriched my life, broadened my job skills, and put me in contact with people that were looking to hire. I don't see volunteering as "putting someone down." Volunteering is lifting someone up.
Geum - 11 years ago
"...they wouldn’t be asking for it if they didn’t need it..."
Really?!? ROFLMAO
Mrs. Carol L. Bray - 11 years ago
In the 1990's Gov. Engler had a similar program. If receiving public assistance you had to choose one of three programs. 1) go to school 20 hrs. a week, schooling provided, 2) work 20 hrs. a week. or 3) volunteer 20 hrs. a week. It was very successful as far as the school attendance. The schooling for jobs included, maintenance programs, nursing assistants, and becoming chefs, hospitality classes. It was very rewarding to witness the changes in these students, becoming proud of their accomplishments and getting a job after completing their choosen programs. You know everyone is proud of themselves when they accomplish something they never thought possible. Teaching these students and being part of their success was the most rewarding job I had in nursing.
tomw - 11 years ago
Ingy, the Rich Republicans are actually Rich Democrats. Read the two articles below. Check the political donations of the richest - by far favoring Democratic candidates.
The economic ditch was dug by Democrats on Wall St. And THEY got the bailouts...
Mike - 11 years ago
To the point of the 1% IQ genius.
It could be made that the wage is set to $15 and they work enough hours to equal public assistance received.
Public assistance is income.
Kory - 11 years ago
@Ingy - What a crock of crap. Most people who are on food stamps or any other "public" assistance have the ability to work. I work for a governmental agency that provides said assistance and about 90% of the people who actually receive benefits are totally capable of working. They have been spoiled by Obama and convinced that benefits from the government are better than actually working for a living. Who needs to work when Big Brother will provide? Don't you realize the benefits are NOT FREE??? People who work for a living pay for it. I personally want something in return for MY money. If it means mandatory public service for the money, or drug testing...then it'll cut down on free-loaders and idiots like you from getting something you don't deserve for nothing. Grow up and become an adult. If you have to take a job that pays you minimum wage than it gives you an amazing opportunity to get skills so you can get a better job. If you are lazy and stupid and don't try, then you only deserve minimum wage. The only thing people deserve is a chance. It's up to you to make the most of it. Remember...the 1960's are over by 50 years. Get over yourself and grow up.
Trav - 11 years ago
Ingy you say we don't need the evil rich. But who will pay for your entitlements? I agree with you that there is a unhealthy relationship between Wall Street and the government, but I don't think it is unique to just the republican party. This is a virus of greed that has over taken our entire system, and those who benefit lash out at anyone who suggests a change. But the greed isn't just in Washington, it also lies within the people who refuse to work. The type of people that live off the system think they are only taking money from the 1%. In reality the rich in this country have tax lawyers and politicians that fix the system so they pay as little as possible. Even our president only paid 18% and the republican that ran for president, Romney, only paid 16%. The money for your entitlements comes from the middle class, the people making 70k a year and pay over 25% in taxes. The politicians have done an excellent job distracting the American people of the real problems in this country.
Nerfherder - 11 years ago
IGNY - Where do you think the "Government" gets the money to give to people who don't want to work (not the ones who can't work, just the lazy ass bums who choose to live off the backs of others). They get it from those of us who work and pay taxes. Get off your ass and get to work you bum. And yes baby - you need us BAD - without us, you will be cold and starving in the street you lazy ass bum.
Tomas Marny - 11 years ago
You people make it seem like the money received by the welfare recipient comes directly from your own pockets, when in reality, the government just prints it up whenever it feels like it. If they can print up billions to save non-viable banks, they can print up a couple of millions for people who would otherwise be viable citizens were it not for government intrusion into the free markets. As regards forcing someone to "volunteer" for unpaid work in order to receive a pittance, that's probably a violation of minimum-wage laws.
As regards drug testing, I think it's a wonderful idea, in which case they can start with the lawmakers themselves, same with the police, all the way down to those mandatory volunteers for unpaid work. Hmmm, I wonder if there's another word for that?
The fact that 97% of all the readers disagree with me doesn't surprise me at all since my IQ places me in the top 1%. Your opinions, therefore, do not interest me.
Will - 11 years ago
We should take it even farther. If you are on on food stamps or well fare you should not be allowed to purchase alcohol or tobacco products. Most states have a magnetic strip on the back of their drivers license/state id that could be swiped before any purchase for these products can be made.
Ingy - 11 years ago
WOW... did they post this poll on Breitbart or Drudge Report? Pretty obvious it's been skewed by Republicans and is misleading. Until they arrest and try Wall Street bankers who got us into this mess, and who refuse to help out the poor, unemployed, homeless and elderly, then I am going to NOT work and NOT volunteer to help out these evil, rich Republicans by planting trees or cleaning up trash in their high-class neighborhoods. I know many people that take PRIDE in the fact that the taxpayer dollars of the RICH REPUBLICANS are used to support programs so people like us don't have to work. I LOVE IT! So all of you conservative Republicans, go to hell. We don't need your kind anymore.
John - 11 years ago
This will help weed out Obama's sponges.
Robert Bradley - 11 years ago
State Sen. Vincent Gregory - "These people.... they wouldn’t be asking for it if they didn’t need it." The good senator is either extremely naive or extremely disingenuous.
E - 11 years ago
Heck, even my dog has to work for her treat. why shouldn't able-bodied welfare recipients?
Roger Walklin - 11 years ago
Drug testing should be mandatory for all welfare/unemployment recipients. This should include food stamps. The only draw back is how all the requirements are implemented when we have such wide spread failure of to many government agencies now. Fraud could run rampant but I feel welfare, when treated like a business and not a government handout, would work for the taxpayers of Michigan.
I am not in favor of eliminating welfare. Abuse of welfare is the blight on a very good program to aid people in need of assistance. It is not for people using welfare as a way of life.
sally - 11 years ago
"He who will not work, will not eat." Captain John Smith at Jamestown.
His edict saved the colony which was dying....much like the U.S. today.
Anyone receiving welfare benefits and is, therefore, required to work is receiving much, much more than a check. He/she is getting some work experience, possibly learning a skill or two and, above all, gaining self respect.
Who knows? A little of the above and we might find ourselves with a budding conservative?
JERRY CARTER - 11 years ago
If they put in a hard days work maybe that will cut down on the number of new Welfare Recips! Look at what a good job the Democrats have done with Welfare, the more out of wedlock kids these low lives produce the bigger the check!
Carl Hoffman - 11 years ago
Nothing wrong in asking someone who is receiving taxpayers funds to find work. It may as stated lead to them finding a job. In short you get what you work for. If a person can buy drugs and be on welfare and just sit around getting high why should a hardworking tax payer be the one to fund it. You learn skills and feel better about yourself if you work to earn a living.
uncle steve - 11 years ago
This WAS me 31 years ago. I worked for a lawn service during the WETTEST SUMMER IN HISTORY. Rained almost every day. 3 months later, I was probably gonna be evicted. The welfare people said that they would make me square with my landlord, but I would have to work 20 hours for a Catholic school (they called it WORKFARE). Since it was STILL raining, I worked 30 hours, same as the school kids. 6 weeks later, I was hired, as a Caretaker, living on the property, next door to work. I haven't made a RENT payment, or paid a utility bill since 1982, I take home a paycheck,have a pension, company truck, expense account, power to hire employees who will replace me WHEN I RETIRE WITH A FULL PENSION in 3 years.
Could have retired with a full pension at 55, but THEN I would have to get a REAL JOB, and WHY would I want to leave?
If this is good for the every day Joe then I want to see ALL of the company's that get gov hand outs and tax brake picking up trash and Scrape gum off side walks....Whats good for the goose
Ingy is a stupid loser, but thankfully took the time to prove the system is rife with thieves. A coward to not put his/her real name and hopefully falls prey to this WONDERFUL AND ABOUT TIME PROPOSAL. I for 1 would love to watch people like Ingy wither and die. My taxes should go toward paying the deficit, not to losers who won't contribute. It is sad to need welfare and welfare should be there for the truly needy. Anyone content to live off welfare and public assistance HAS to be a loser, especially while living in the Land of Opportunity.
This is a great way to allow people who do feel down and out, now feel productive, and maybe feel they have a small purpose to get up in the morning. Human nature does not allow us to feel good about being on welfare or unproductive. I believe, over time with giving of their time, they will see that they can make a difference in their small way. I think it is a great idea and will hopefully make a difference in the welfare state's lives, for the ones that really should not and do not need to be on this system.
This looks very reasonable. I think this should be implemented in all 50 states. - From a Liberal Leaning, ProBusiness American. Everyone needs to get up and take action and I think volunteering for assistance is a great idea. And no I do not think the distraction about busing or driving them to work is necessary. There are many ways to volunteer and our communities need us to get up and take action, not allow the old ways of the past (last 20 years) continue. Thank you for this article and the comments that follow. Again, I think this should be implemented in all 50 states.
An unusually good collection of comments. I agree with the majority. No work, no goodies. No drugs, booze,
cigarettes, etc. Only basic groceries. No fancy stuff. No cash in exchange for food stamps or other welfare
coupons or vouchers. Housing rent will be paid directly to the provider. Child support will be limited to no more than two children per family. Many other aspects of our welfare mess must be considered as well. Welfare kings and queens must be found out and declared ineligible for further assistance.
So long as it enables and doesn't institutionalize I think it's a great idea.
No more than 4 hours a day with plenty of time to job search, make contacts or work on starting their own business with incentives & help for those to start businesses that gainfully employ others with additional help the first rough year of start up.
That way is fine.
Just forcing people to work for the government then giving them lesser pay, no benefits & no ability for growth and calling it "unemployment welfare" I do NOT agree with. That's just slavery but letting them stay in their homes instead of plantations.
Why not implement a CCC (civilian conservation corp) type a workforce. It worked during the the depression years, 1934-1942. It put un-empluyed young men to work. Fixing roads, Cleaning streets and other types of labor. As far as transportation, there could be central pick up points where a govt. bus would pick them up, and drop them off after work. It would keep young men off the streets, and they would and necessary work would get done.
Tomas Marny aka 'jackazz" printing money also takes it out of your pocket because printing more money reduces it value!!! what a moron and he thinks he's got a high iq. your head sure is big, but not from brains!
Our economy is in shatters - people have stopped looking for jobs - because there are no jobs - it is not because they do not want to work. Now Obama has changed the definition of full time work - its 30 hours - so now people will be offered 29 hour a week jobs - no benefits - and if your lucky you can find a few jobs to make ends meet - you won't see your family - taking care of ones kids will become more difficult because of coordinating work schedules between several jobs - people will be running around like chickens with their heads cut off just to survive. There is nothing wrong with incentives to get people out there to find a job - but it is foolhardy to pretend that things have not changed in the last 5 years - and people who would like to work cannot find jobs - people who did everything right - got an education - are now living in their parents' basement - So for those of you who are lucky enough to have a job - do not assume that you will not soon be in the position of those you are criticizing. Obama won a second term - and we will all suffer under his vision for our country, our elected officials being more interested in themselves and a general malaise that they think they know what is best and indeed better for us. This problem will solve itself when the economy turns around - and until it does - do not judge those who are suffering under the consequences of Washington's policies and the choices we all make at elections - albeit - we are not given much of a choice - those who want to serve - want to serve themselves.
Think of the benefits these people will receive. By volunteering you develop a social network, and skills that can connect you with a real job. You can have the opportunity to get some exercise. Currently, If you are unable only sit in a chair the state should pay to put you into an exercise and rehabilitation program to get you back into shape. Heck the program could even be run by OTHER healthier welfare recipients.
Please send the poll results to State Sen. Vincent Gregory, D-Southfield.
Any where in US there is a need for community volunteers. And there is are not time requirements. Local hospital exist because of volunteers. Helping seniors. Crossing guards to help young kids cross the streets. Sitting with the elderly. Billions of opportunities that do not require travel or a lot of time.
A hard working volunteer could open doors for themselves in the future.
It's about time ! Let them clean the roads, graffiti, etc. 2 1/2 days p/wk. Meet at 6:00am til 1:00pm. They don't show up, they don't get government benefits.
Then watch the rolls drop & all the "Help Wanted" signs come down.
Hey, BigD! Excellent points. Come on over to my GoogleGroups.
Hang on a minute! If they're working then pay them in full. Problem solved. Turn that voluntary vacancy into a paid vacancy! Of course, this has nothing to do with self esteem or any of the BS platitudes that accompany BS schemes like this. It's all about getting people to work for less than the minimum wage legally and this is how to do it. Slavery ain't dead, folks.
Who is going to transport them back and forth for community service? Even if they have a car, who is going to pay the gas for them to drive back and forth 3 or 4 days a week? Not everyone lives in a large city with public transportation, a lot of Michigan is still very rural, with jobs community service related or not being 30+ minutes away.
Also who is going to pay for child care while they are at "work"?
The whole part about drug testing is a big FAIL. Just look at Florida, how did that work out for them? Come on people think about these things please, every time the great and wonderful gubberment tells anyone what to do, it ends up costing tax payers even more money. So now you want me to buy them a car and pay for their gas to drive back and forth to what is sure to become a make work job with little or no chance of employment?
You can tell yourselves all the feel good stories you want about so and so got a job from community service, but actually think about how many people we are talking about here and you will realize that the vast majority of them are going to be standing around doing nothing, while we pay gas, car , and child care expenses for them to do so. That's not to even mention the possibility of corruption with this idea, holy cow. USE YOUR FREAKING BRAIN PEOPLE.
Well. Folks, step back from the problem and the need to defend your positions and think about the Unintended Consequences of this bill. Anyone other that libtards (B..B..BUT THE FASCIST RACIST KKKONSERVATIVES) and conservatards (B..B..BUT THE COMMIE ANTIAMERICAN LIBERALS) are invited to join me for a rational discussion at a GoogleGroups I've just created at https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/michiganworkfaredebate.
Doing Community Service for TANF (welfare) is going strong in the Commonwealth of Kentucky! All clients that recieve cash assistance must meet participation by doing either 20, 30, 35 or in the case of 2 parent households 55 (combined) hours of participation per week.
This is not a punishment, but a way for a client to feel that they are being productive, pick up additional job skills and allow them to fill in gaps in their work history. These community service positions do lead into paid employment in many cases. I've seen clients doing community service hired in to full time positions by not only non-profits, but with State and County Govenment agencies as well.
If someone should disagree with this then maybe they should dontate more of their hard earned income to allow people to stay home and receive benefits for as long as they want.
The democrats will never stand for this. Their voters depend on them for free handouts without any strings....well except to vote for the most corrupt and lying politicians on the planet....which apparently is a very small price to pay for free food, welfare, and housing!
How about drug testing, proof of citizenship and tokens to redeem for necessities vs. cash payment.
The welfare state (socialism) is broke and dead. Detroit is leading the way.
Being on welfare destroys self esteem and value however, sometimes assistance is necessary. Volunteerism conversely lifts people up, both the giver and receiver.
Great Idea, however, Eric Holder and the Dems will step in and rule against it.
Ingy, your stupidity is outstanding. If 'we' normal hard working individuals did not exist, your lazy good for nothing azz wouldn't either.
Catch 22 but sorry I want to live a wonderful life. I can only wish this country will change direction and give you two choices: To work and live or starve and die.
Good luck with that one.
If this bill passes, Indiana and Ohio will have to build a fence.
If this were to pass, I for one would be relieved that maybe, just maybe, our great country does have a future as common sense appears to be associated with a government enacted piece of legislature.
"Should people be required to perform community service to receive welfare benefits?" hmm, well lets see, am I required to work to receive benefits that fund welfare recipients? YES, so they should be required to work for them as well don't you think?
Maybe they can alleviate some of the burden placed on us working folk for having to pay for yet another service if they worked at it as part of community service. Gee what a novel idea!
And the people who truly need welfare funds because they are going through a rough stretch for one reason or another, would be proud to work for the funds. The ones you'll get the complaints from are the same ones that are likely abusing and playing the system.
These lazy fvcks ought to learn about the people of the dust bowl, many of whom were TOO PROUD to take free handouts from the gubmint. But when handed a shovel for the "make work program", many were glad to work, and it saved them from starvation. We ought to let these modern day lazy assh0les STARVE.
This should be done, at a minimum. It's pretty much what ALL government workers do, if you truly think about it. They should up for a make-believe job and we pay them tax money for showing up. They return a fraction of it to the government, but by-and-large, public employees aren't really employees. How can you be an "employee" for an institution that doesn't really create anything. They are getting paychecks and showing up. The only way this works is if you have enough people or true corporations in the private sector paying the taxes to make it all work.
Wow, Ingy's been super brainwashed. Geez, somebody give that person a hug.
Notice how Democrats like to paint ALL welfare recipients as lowest of the low. And thus it's unconscionable to make ANY recipient show reciprocity in any fashion for the help they receive.
The reality is, Democrats believe in dependance. Take away a man's conscience to earn his keep, and you have a nation of slaves for your beckoning.
For Jeff: You ask a very good question: "What about the sick?" My answer for that is there is always something to do. Volunteer work doesn't necessarily mean get out of the house and reclaim a park, build a house, or feed the homeless. Sometimes it is paper work, sorting, mailing, that kind of thing.
The LDS church has been doing this kind of thing for YEARS. And, as it happens, Salt Lake City is at the top of the list when it comes to people being on welfare back to work stat for years. (Not saying that the LDS church influences government, but when a poor person seeks government assistance, they will also seek assistance from the Church in their area.)
Don't leave the work schedule up to the Human Services Department. Set guide lines for such things as minimum hours and types of work. Baby sitting a cat doesn't work.
Fuc$$n - A...this is a LONG time coming and it should have been implemented a long time ago. Say good-bye to the free ride and HELLO to reality.
The problem with the "entitlement" crowd is that they have been fed little bites of BS from the government and MSM for so long that they actually believe it.
I just hope this trend catches on throughout the country.
long time overdue. this needs to expand throughout the usa and also sterilize them after 2 kids. cant do the fathers because these breeeders have 15 men on the side.....
As a matter of fact, if that is the case, and they are going to do that, why don't we require all government employees....all federal....to be drug tested to see if they should receive their checks or not....oh, I'm sorry, "they didn't inhale"....right! LOL
Yes, able bodied people should be able to contribute by doing community service or something, but what about the disabled or older ones...the government takes, and doesn't give it back once they get it...this is very intrusive. So I voted no...I don't trust the government....left or right! thank you for asking......
Our President has been saying everyone has to have "skin in the game" for years. But as soon as this proposal is put on people getting checks from the government, and of course vote for Democrats they backpeddle. The hypocrisy of the Left never ends.
I see no problem with this. I have to work to earn my money at my job. If I don't show up - I don't get paid. All this bill is asking is for people to perform some type of community service to receive the handout. When I was between jobs several years ago - instead of getting a handout, I volunteered full time and burned through my savings. The job I got was a direct result of my volunteer work. I got to know the people in the organizations, found out about job opportunities and the organization got to see my work ethic and skills prior to hiring me. This is a good plan and I support it 100%. I still volunteer in my free time because the experience enriched my life. Volunteering is never a bad thing. My volunteer experience enriched my life, broadened my job skills, and put me in contact with people that were looking to hire. I don't see volunteering as "putting someone down." Volunteering is lifting someone up.
"...they wouldn’t be asking for it if they didn’t need it..."
Really?!? ROFLMAO
In the 1990's Gov. Engler had a similar program. If receiving public assistance you had to choose one of three programs. 1) go to school 20 hrs. a week, schooling provided, 2) work 20 hrs. a week. or 3) volunteer 20 hrs. a week. It was very successful as far as the school attendance. The schooling for jobs included, maintenance programs, nursing assistants, and becoming chefs, hospitality classes. It was very rewarding to witness the changes in these students, becoming proud of their accomplishments and getting a job after completing their choosen programs. You know everyone is proud of themselves when they accomplish something they never thought possible. Teaching these students and being part of their success was the most rewarding job I had in nursing.
Ingy, the Rich Republicans are actually Rich Democrats. Read the two articles below. Check the political donations of the richest - by far favoring Democratic candidates.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/20/us-usa-holder-mortgage-idUSTRE80J0PH20120120
http://www.gregpalast.com/larry-summers-goldman-sacked/#more-8494
The economic ditch was dug by Democrats on Wall St. And THEY got the bailouts...
To the point of the 1% IQ genius.
It could be made that the wage is set to $15 and they work enough hours to equal public assistance received.
Public assistance is income.
@Ingy - What a crock of crap. Most people who are on food stamps or any other "public" assistance have the ability to work. I work for a governmental agency that provides said assistance and about 90% of the people who actually receive benefits are totally capable of working. They have been spoiled by Obama and convinced that benefits from the government are better than actually working for a living. Who needs to work when Big Brother will provide? Don't you realize the benefits are NOT FREE??? People who work for a living pay for it. I personally want something in return for MY money. If it means mandatory public service for the money, or drug testing...then it'll cut down on free-loaders and idiots like you from getting something you don't deserve for nothing. Grow up and become an adult. If you have to take a job that pays you minimum wage than it gives you an amazing opportunity to get skills so you can get a better job. If you are lazy and stupid and don't try, then you only deserve minimum wage. The only thing people deserve is a chance. It's up to you to make the most of it. Remember...the 1960's are over by 50 years. Get over yourself and grow up.
Ingy you say we don't need the evil rich. But who will pay for your entitlements? I agree with you that there is a unhealthy relationship between Wall Street and the government, but I don't think it is unique to just the republican party. This is a virus of greed that has over taken our entire system, and those who benefit lash out at anyone who suggests a change. But the greed isn't just in Washington, it also lies within the people who refuse to work. The type of people that live off the system think they are only taking money from the 1%. In reality the rich in this country have tax lawyers and politicians that fix the system so they pay as little as possible. Even our president only paid 18% and the republican that ran for president, Romney, only paid 16%. The money for your entitlements comes from the middle class, the people making 70k a year and pay over 25% in taxes. The politicians have done an excellent job distracting the American people of the real problems in this country.
IGNY - Where do you think the "Government" gets the money to give to people who don't want to work (not the ones who can't work, just the lazy ass bums who choose to live off the backs of others). They get it from those of us who work and pay taxes. Get off your ass and get to work you bum. And yes baby - you need us BAD - without us, you will be cold and starving in the street you lazy ass bum.
You people make it seem like the money received by the welfare recipient comes directly from your own pockets, when in reality, the government just prints it up whenever it feels like it. If they can print up billions to save non-viable banks, they can print up a couple of millions for people who would otherwise be viable citizens were it not for government intrusion into the free markets. As regards forcing someone to "volunteer" for unpaid work in order to receive a pittance, that's probably a violation of minimum-wage laws.
As regards drug testing, I think it's a wonderful idea, in which case they can start with the lawmakers themselves, same with the police, all the way down to those mandatory volunteers for unpaid work. Hmmm, I wonder if there's another word for that?
The fact that 97% of all the readers disagree with me doesn't surprise me at all since my IQ places me in the top 1%. Your opinions, therefore, do not interest me.
We should take it even farther. If you are on on food stamps or well fare you should not be allowed to purchase alcohol or tobacco products. Most states have a magnetic strip on the back of their drivers license/state id that could be swiped before any purchase for these products can be made.
WOW... did they post this poll on Breitbart or Drudge Report? Pretty obvious it's been skewed by Republicans and is misleading. Until they arrest and try Wall Street bankers who got us into this mess, and who refuse to help out the poor, unemployed, homeless and elderly, then I am going to NOT work and NOT volunteer to help out these evil, rich Republicans by planting trees or cleaning up trash in their high-class neighborhoods. I know many people that take PRIDE in the fact that the taxpayer dollars of the RICH REPUBLICANS are used to support programs so people like us don't have to work. I LOVE IT! So all of you conservative Republicans, go to hell. We don't need your kind anymore.
This will help weed out Obama's sponges.
State Sen. Vincent Gregory - "These people.... they wouldn’t be asking for it if they didn’t need it." The good senator is either extremely naive or extremely disingenuous.
Heck, even my dog has to work for her treat. why shouldn't able-bodied welfare recipients?
Drug testing should be mandatory for all welfare/unemployment recipients. This should include food stamps. The only draw back is how all the requirements are implemented when we have such wide spread failure of to many government agencies now. Fraud could run rampant but I feel welfare, when treated like a business and not a government handout, would work for the taxpayers of Michigan.
I am not in favor of eliminating welfare. Abuse of welfare is the blight on a very good program to aid people in need of assistance. It is not for people using welfare as a way of life.
"He who will not work, will not eat." Captain John Smith at Jamestown.
His edict saved the colony which was dying....much like the U.S. today.
Anyone receiving welfare benefits and is, therefore, required to work is receiving much, much more than a check. He/she is getting some work experience, possibly learning a skill or two and, above all, gaining self respect.
Who knows? A little of the above and we might find ourselves with a budding conservative?
If they put in a hard days work maybe that will cut down on the number of new Welfare Recips! Look at what a good job the Democrats have done with Welfare, the more out of wedlock kids these low lives produce the bigger the check!
Nothing wrong in asking someone who is receiving taxpayers funds to find work. It may as stated lead to them finding a job. In short you get what you work for. If a person can buy drugs and be on welfare and just sit around getting high why should a hardworking tax payer be the one to fund it. You learn skills and feel better about yourself if you work to earn a living.
This WAS me 31 years ago. I worked for a lawn service during the WETTEST SUMMER IN HISTORY. Rained almost every day. 3 months later, I was probably gonna be evicted. The welfare people said that they would make me square with my landlord, but I would have to work 20 hours for a Catholic school (they called it WORKFARE). Since it was STILL raining, I worked 30 hours, same as the school kids. 6 weeks later, I was hired, as a Caretaker, living on the property, next door to work. I haven't made a RENT payment, or paid a utility bill since 1982, I take home a paycheck,have a pension, company truck, expense account, power to hire employees who will replace me WHEN I RETIRE WITH A FULL PENSION in 3 years.
Could have retired with a full pension at 55, but THEN I would have to get a REAL JOB, and WHY would I want to leave?