Abstract
Major changes are underway in the American programme to aid mothers with dependent children. One major component of the proposed changes is a work requirement for mothers. To begin to explore what problems and opportunities may be created by a work requirement, this paper explores several questions related to the work and earnings' experience of a cohort of 42 000 aid recipients in an urban county. Among the several findings is the fact that about 70 per cent of the welfare recipients have recent work experience. For some, the experience is limited; for others, especially those known to have left welfare, it is extensive. The earnings produced from work range from basically pocket change to well in excess of US$16 500 per year. The implications for policy changes vary with one's perspective. What is clear is that some recipients can earn more than welfare; for others, such earnings will be more difficult.
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