SENATE BILL REPORT

SCR 8446

BYSenators Patrick, Murray, Smith, Hayner, Talmadge and Johnson

Requesting an interim study on poverty issues.

AS OF APRIL 6, 1990

BACKGROUND:

The demographics of poverty have changed over the last decade.  There is a higher percentage of single female-headed households than before.  Women often must choose between working outside of the home, which requires finding adequate child care or staying home to care for their children and depend on public assistance for income.

Many studies have linked poverty to increased incidents of child abuse and neglect, substance abuse, domestic violence, school drop-out rates and other social problems.  Social and welfare interventions have not had the positive impacts on these problems that many hoped for.

SUMMARY:

Appropriate committees of the Senate and the House of Representatives shall conduct an interim study on issues surrounding poverty.  As a result of this study, the Legislature shall receive direct advice and recommendations from a broad cross-section of the state's poor families and children.