Remarkably, Alabama's reduction came on the heels of three annual increases in AFDC benefits, which would presumably increase the attractiveness of staying on welfare. Part of the caseload reduction can be credited to the effectiveness of the JOBS Program within AFDC, but part of the credit should go to the strong economy in the state. Short-range training programs would offer quick improvements in their employability. In the long run, a broader education that emphasizes thinking skills may give the state a better return on its human investment. Alabama has a shortage of low-skill jobs.
Some people are unlikely to gain higher skills without expensive investment in training programs.
At present Alabama has few jobs requiring low skills, in comparison to states such as Michigan. DHR officials acknowledge that many women leave welfare and take jobs without being told that they qualify for transitional benefits. Many welfare families live in counties where there are almost no jobs available. Many more live on the wrong side of town or out in the county, and have no transportation to the job. Cutting their welfare benefits would not create an incentive to take a job.