Historical Trends in State-Level ADC/AFDC Benefits: Living on Less and Less

Authors

Sandra Wexler, University of Pittsburgh
Rafael J. Engel, University of Pittsburgh

Abstract

This paper, using government statistics, describes state-level variation in ADC/AFDC benefits from 1940-1995. The findings illustrate that the "race to the bottom" began in 1975, especially among higher paying states. The concomitant declines in benefit value relative to the poverty line places TANF-dependent recipients in serious jeopardy. Implications for education and advocacy are discussed.

Recommended Citation

Wexler, Sandra and Engel, Rafael J. (1999) "Historical Trends in State-Level ADC/AFDC Benefits: Living on Less and Less," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 26: Iss. 2, Article 4.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.2568
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol26/iss2/4