Leaders in the Massachusetts Senate have unveiled a bill to overhaul the welfare system. WAMC”s Paul Tuthill reports
State Senate President Therese Murray said the welfare system is stagnant and needs to put more emphasis on helping people get a job. The bill would require people applying for benefits to seek work, first on their own, and then with state assistance through a new program. There are anti-fraud measures, such as requiring photo IDs on EBT cards. John Polanowizc, who oversees the welfare system, said he’s willing to work with legislative leaders on reforms.
Welfare reforms have received new regency because of a couple of critical reports, including one from the state auditor who found benefits had been paid to more than a thousand people who are deceased.
