WISCONSINS WELFARE-REFORM AND ITS POTENTIAL EFFECTS ON THE HEALTH OF CHILDREN

Wisconsin, like many other states seeking increased state flexibility in federalized programs, is in the midst of a bold welfare reform init iative entitled Wisconsin Works (W-2), which was signed into law on Ap ril 25, 1996. This study reviews the state's transition from the exist ing welfare program to one in which participants are required to work. The primary concerns with this new system are the potential consequen ces of higher poverty status and worsening health status among childre n. As details of W-2 are clarified government benefits for children, s uch as child cave and health care, need to be protected and/or enhance d. Close scrutiny is warranted to avert severe consequences in these a reas as well as in family-supporting wages. The authors suggest that i n: monitoring W-2, several important principles should be considered t o ensure that families become financially independent and able to main tain secure lifestyles for their children.