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October 9, 1967 MEMORANDUM FROM: Legislative Task Force TO: Steering Committee, Urban Coalition SUBJECT: Report of Legislative Task Force Job Program: The Legislative Task Force has for the last few weeks concentrated on developing support for the Clark-Javits Emergency Employment Act. As originally drafted, the bill did not secure the support of several key Senators. We worked with Senator Prouty of Vermont and Senators Clark, Javits, and Scott, arriving at a compromise version which provided for increased private participation. The compromise was defeated 47 to 42, in spite of substantial Republican support. This was accomplished with limited Steering Committee support. The Task Force is nevertheless encouraged. Because of the narrow margin and the generally good support, an emergency work program will be reintroduced soon. We are cooperating with Senators Clark and Javits in drafting the measure. Senator Clark's Poverty Subcommittee will hold hearings soon a fter the bill is introduced. Steering Committee members will be asked to testify. A s i milar eme rgency employment bill is being considere d in the House and if he a rings are held Steering Committee members can e xpect to be aske d to test i fy . 143.215.248.55 R~!at ed f143.215.248.55 e s s i onal Leg i slation Two other measures now pending s hould receive the f ull attention of the Urban Coalition a s i nt e gral compone nts of the job problem . First, the welfare ame ndment s which include a provision requiring all "employable' 1 welfare recipients to ente r training programs or the job market, or lose their welfare payments. The negative impact in the ghetto will be great if this provision stands. The Urban Coalition should take a strong stand against this proposal. Second, in the House the Administration's poverty amendments are in dire trouble and in all likelihood will be changed substantia lly. �- 2 - Recommendations The Task Force recommends that the Steering Committee become actively involved in behalf of these measures. It recommends that the Legislative Task Force be authorized to arrange for testimony by Steering Committee members and take such other action to support the policy approved on these three measures. �