These individuals tended to be exempted from work requirements and to remain on public assistance, while significant resources were instead targeted at more employable recipients. At the same time, the block grants offer states new opportunities for implementing innovative programs to address special needs.
Individual states report higher numbers.
Oregon and Kansas found in 1997 that at least 50 percent of their welfare caseloads had substance abuse problems. While their dependency may not prevent them from working, these recipients are less likely to work steadily. The current capacity of the public alcohol and drug treatment system can accommodate only about 50 percent of those needing treatment. The percentage is even lower for women. Historically, women have been underserved by a treatment system designed on models of care for alcoholic males.