June 2006

by WROC members Karin Murphy, Shannon Blood and Monica Peabody

SANCTION: A penalty intended to enforce compliance or conformity; a coercive measure adopted usually by several nations against a nation violating international law.

Does this seem like a word that should be associated with Washington's poor children? Yes, according to Governor Gregoire. As of March 2007, children living in Washington will be "sanctioned" -- their welfare benefits cut off -- if their parents are perceived as not complying with welfare to work programs. Though it will harm children already facing a lack of support for . . .