The Clinton Years (5)

Many states, however, implemented “work first” programs, moving recipients into jobs without training. Although these programs reduced the welfare rolls because the economy was strong, most recipients who moved off TANF entered “dead-end,” minimum-wage jobs without health
care or other benefits. Recipients were allowed a maximum of 2 years to find employment. Those who failed to do so faced a significant reduction or termination of their benefits. This approach presumes that mandatory work requirements would reduce, if not eliminate, dependence on welfare benefits.