The moral measure of government is how it treats its most vulnerable citizens. One version or another of this adage has been attributed to speakers from Aristotle to Hubert Humphrey.

In his budget address in February, Governor Tom Corbett stated, “If we believe in society, we must accept that we have a duty to care for and protect those among us who cannot fend for themselves.” He went on to announce, however, the next step in his effort to “right size” the public welfare system.