Welfare Reform

Every one of Sam Mistrano’s recommendations for changing the welfare system will do more harm than good (“Welfare Clock Will Run Out Before Job Supply Catches Up,” Commentary, July 16). Eliminating time limits to welfare benefits will eliminate the sense of urgency required to cause those addicted to handouts to become self-sufficient. Welfare has caused misery and despondence for millions of Americans by encouraging dependency and illegitimacy.

Now that its insidious effects are beginning to diminish and people are helping themselves by going back to work, self-proclaimed advocates like Mistrano proclaim welfare reform to be “failing in every respect.” One thing he stated is accurate--it may be time to reassess welfare reform. However, this time we should consider further reducing time allowances or eliminating welfare altogether.

JIM MLADENIK

Irvine