Beyond Benefits: Examining the Effects of Welfare Disqualification Due to Felony Drug Convictions on Recidivism

• In Event: Poster Session 1

Abstract

One-third of American adults have a criminal record and are subject to collateral consequences. One such consequence is welfare disqualification due to a felony drug conviction, as outlined by the welfare reform policy PRWORA. Previous studies had inconsistent findings, demonstrating the need for further research, which this study addresses. This study examines the effects of PRWORA on recidivism rates across different states. To determine the level of aid restrictions for each state, the states were ranked on a scale from 1 to 6 with 1 representing no enforcement of the bans outlined by PRWORA and 6 representing full enforcement. The data was analyzed using descriptive, bivariate, and regression analyses, which found a significant, negative relationship between the level of aid restrictions and recidivism. However, there was also a significant, positive relationship between the level of aid restrictions and crime rate. This discrepancy is likely due to the limited measurement of recidivism, as it was defined as a return to prison rate and likely excluded a substantial portion of offenses. This paper suggests that future research should define recidivism more inclusively, as either rearrest rates or return to custody rates, to avoid this limitation.

Author

• Joanna Wahmhoff, Northeastern University