1996 Law

The 1996 Law, often referring to the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act, reformed U.S. welfare policies by replacing Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) with Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). It emphasizes work requirements, personal responsibility, and time limits on aid to encourage self-sufficiency. The law aims to reduce dependency on government assistance by promoting employment, and it grants states more control over welfare programs while imposing stricter eligibility and funding rules. Overall, it seeks to balance providing temporary support with encouraging long-term independence.