Rep. Paul Ryan to propose consolidation of anti-poverty programs

The proposal calls for melding a range of safety net programs -- from food stamps to housing vouchers -- into a single grant offered to states, which would come with strict accountability standards. The proposal, which does not include Medicaid, is part of a GOP effort to rethink how conservatives approach antipoverty programs.

The Washington Post: Paul Ryan To Unveil Anti-Poverty Plan
The new proposal, called an "Opportunity Grant," would begin on a pilot basis. It would consolidate a range of safety-net programs -; from food stamps to housing vouchers -; into a single grant offered to states. State governments, working with local officials and nonprofit and faith groups, would then distribute the money, with strict accountability standards. Medicaid, the health program for the poor, would not be included (Goldfarb, 7/22).

The Wall Street Journal: Paul Ryan To Propose Sweeping Consolidation In Antipoverty Pitch
Mr. Ryan previously has proposed deep cuts in federal spending on programs such as Medicaid and food stamps, and he has said that federal assistance creates a culture of "dependency" among the poor that makes it harder for people to climb the economic ladder. Mr. Ryan does not offer new proposals for Medicaid in his plan (Paletta, 7/23).