Welfare Reform From Welfare to Research Proposal

The long-term results are that lower income and working class families are suffering more from these transformations. ("Illinois Economic Outlook," 2012) (Clary, 2012)

Once this theory has been supported or refuted, is the point that actuaries can begin to show how the PWORA is impacting stakeholders. ("Illinois Economic Outlook," 2012) (Clary, 2012) ("Illinois," 2013)

Statement of the Problem

Describe the nature of the problem / policy

The state of Illinois is facing a dilemma with the stagnant economy adversely affecting the unemployed. Many have been turning to welfare and other programs for assistance. However, the changes introduced in the last 15 years are creating hardships for a number of working class families. This is resulting in an estimated 35% not receiving the help they need to deal with everyday challenges. ("Illinois Economic Outlook," 2012) (Clary, 2012) ("Illinois," 2013)

How long has this problem existed?

The problem has existed for the last six years. This is when the economy slowed and unemployment began to rise sharply starting in 2007. ("Illinois Economic Outlook," 2012) (Clary, 2012) ("Illinois," 2013)

Provide a historical overview

From the late 1990s until 2007, Illinois experienced tremendous amounts of growth. This was from a revitalization of the manufacturing base, the attraction of key industries and a robust housing market. In 2007, the economy collapsed when real estate prices imploded from excessive speculation.This caused negative growth to impact manufacturing and services (resulting in a rise in the unemployment rate). The slow recovery has meant that many skilled workers are having trouble finding long-term employment. This is the point that they are underemployed and can barely make ends meet. What makes the situation worse; is many do not qualify for public assistance from the stipulations imposed by the PWORA. ("Illinois Economic Outlook," 2012) (Clary, 2012) ("Illinois," 2013)

Explain, why, in your opinion, does this problem still exist today?

The reason why the problem exists is from inflexible government regulations lacking foresight (i.e. The PWORA). This occurred as a reaction to abuses of the welfare system in the 1990s. If reforms were enacted that took into account the state of the economy. Illinois' welfare program will be more responsive to those who need it the most. This is the ultimate goal in providing everyone with a path to self-sufficiency and support. ("Illinois Economic Outlook," 2012) (Clary, 2012) ("Illinois," 2013)

References

Illinois. (2013). BLS. Retrieved from: http://www.bls.gov/eag/eag.il.htm

Illinois Economic Outlook. (2012). Chase.com. Retrieved from: https://www.chase.com/online/commercial-bank/document/Illinois.pdf

Clary, J. (2012). Illinois Poverty. Chicago Gazette. Retrieved from: http://www.gazettechicago.com/index/2012/01/illinois-poverty-reaches-highest-point-in-decades-study-reveals/

Lewis, D. (2004). The Two Worlds of Welfare Reform. Northwestern University. Retrieved from: http://www.ipr.northwestern.edu/publications/papers/IFSyear4.pdf

Maidenburg, M. (2011). Welfare Reform. Chicago Now. Retrieved from: http://www.chicagonow.com/chicago-muckrakers/2011/08/welfare-reform-15-years-on-in-illinois/.....