A Decade of Welfare Reform: Facts & Figures

June 2006 A Decade of Welfare Reform: Facts & Figures In the ten years since 1996, when welfare reform legislation was passed, the effects of the reforms have been studied. The legislation changed Aid to Families with Dependent Children into the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. The reform was intended to end dependence on government cash assistance by promoting job preparation and work. States were given flexibility to implement their welfare programs. The changes impacted low-income families in the following ways: Fewer families were eligible, so welfare caseloads declined   Participation in work activities increased from 31% in 1997 . . .