Welfare Reform, Texas-Style

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Food Stamp Program

• Legal permanent residents will no longer be eligible. (Those who were already receiving food stamps on or before August 22, 1996 can continue to receive them for one year (8/22/97) to give them time to become citizens.)
• Able-bodied adults with no dependents, ages 18-50, are limited to 3 months' benefits in a three-year period unless they are working 20 hours a week or participating in a work program.
• Food stamp benefits will be reduced by lowering the basis for eligibility.

Aid to Families With Dependent Children

• Caretakers of dependent children are given one, two, or three year limits based on their educational level and work history.
• Caretakers must sign the Personal Responsibility Agreement, which includes a pledge to participate in a job training program.
• Legal permanent residents who are admitted on or after 8/22/96 are barred from receiving AFDC for five years.

Medicaid

• Texas has exercised the option to continue providing Medicaid to current recipients who are legal immigrants.

Supplemental Security Income

• Legal permanent residents who are receiving SSI may continue for one year, given to become a citizen.

  - A.D.