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Date:  July 31, 1995
For Release:  Immediately
Contact:  Michael Kharfen, ACF (202) 401-9215

"The Texas demonstration promotes the Clinton administration's goal of encourging parental responsibility under welfare reform," said Secretary Shalala. "It also assures the health and well-being of children."

Under the demonstration, the parent or guardian of all pre- school age children receiving Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) benefits will be required to provide proof that their children have either received or begun to receive the immunizations appropriate for their age. Parents or guardians will be required to present each child's immunization records during their regular AFDC periodic six-month recertification interview, or a fiscal sanction may be imposed.

The state will continue its efforts to educate parents about the urgency of immunizations, extend opportunities to receive vaccines in Department of Human Services' offices, and work cooperatively with the Texas Department of Health to find ways to facilitate immunizations for children on AFDC caseloads. The Texas Department of Health is targeting $10 million to improve access and does not intend to impose sanctions until barriers to access have been addressed.

"Texas is making a tremendous effort to ensure that all its children are protected from life-threatening illnesses," said Mary Jo Bane, assistant secretary for children and families. "The state is also educating parents to fulfill their fundamental responsibility to secure proper medical attention for their children's health."

The demonstration will operate for six years, beginning Sept. 1, 1995, and include a rigorous evaluation.