Welfare Reform refers to a series of changes or modifications made to existing welfare policies and programs. These changes are typically aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the welfare system, curbing dependency on state assistance, and promoting self-sufficiency among recipients. Welfare reform often involves adjustments to eligibility criteria, benefit levels, and work requirements.
Objectives of Welfare Reform§
Reducing Dependency§
Improving Efficiency§
Promoting Self-Sufficiency§
Types of Welfare Reform§
Work Requirements§
Time Limits§
Benefit Reductions§
Support Services§
Historical Context§
Pre-1996 Welfare System§
The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) of 1996§
Post-PRWORA Reforms§
Applicability§
Economic Impact§
Social Impact§
Comparisons§
Welfarism vs. Welfare Reform§
Other Countries’ Welfare Reforms§
Related Terms§
- Public Assistance:
- Social Safety Net:
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF):
FAQs§
What prompted the need for welfare reform?
How does welfare reform impact poverty levels?
Can welfare reform lead to higher employment rates?
References§
Scholarly Articles§
Government Reports§
Books§
Welfare Reform encompasses modifications to the welfare system with the goal of making it more efficient, less prone to dependency, and more conducive to recipients achieving economic self-sufficiency. Typically involving changes such as work requirements, time limits, and benefit reductions, these reforms have significant economic and social implications.
