It’s hard to remember the anger at the welfare system that led to its transformation in 1996 from a guaranteed cash assistance safety net to a program of work assistance, incentives and requirements. Few complained while the economy was strong but in its first test in a worsening economy, the TANF welfare system seems to be failing families, according to veteran New York Times reporter Jason de Parle. The number of jobless people getting cash assistance from the government remains at its lowest level in 40 years, and 18 states actually cut their welfare rolls last year.

Visit this Web site >>