This legislation sent a clear message to states and to the public that individuals must take personal responsibility for becoming self-sufficient and that work is the primary means for achieving this goal. The welfare system changed from a system of entitlement to one that is time limited and focused on specific program requirements that move recipients towards self sufficiency. This federal legislation included the Wellstone-Murray Family Violence Option amendment. In August of 1997, Governor George Pataki signed into law the New York State Welfare Reform Act. The FVO is intended to address the safety needs of domestic violence victims and their children who are in the welfare system through identification and the granting of waivers.
Waivers are temporary delays of certain temporary assistance program requirements.
Implementation of the FVO in New York began April 1, 1998. Policy Administrative Directive Issued by the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance to local districts outlining the Family Violence Option under the Welfare Reform Act of 1997. Also available from the Western New York Law Center in PDF . A description of the statewide training on the Family Violence Option for Domestic Violence Liaisons in local Departments of Social Services. An overview of the main provisions of the Family Violence Option in New York State.