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We don't want to turn the safety net into a hammock that lulls able-bodied people to lives of dependency and complacency.

U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, in 2012, announcing a budget that would have dramatically altered spending on social services for the poor in America. Ryan subsequently proposed giving states the option of combining up to 11 federal grant programs, including food stamps, welfare and housing aid, into a single block grant.

U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, in 2012, announcing a budget that would have dramatically altered spending on social services for the poor in America. Ryan subsequently proposed giving states the option of combining up to 11 federal grant programs, including food stamps, welfare and housing aid, into a single block grant.

Daniel Luzer is GOVERNING's news editor.
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