ABSTRACT

The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (1996) instituted reforms in welfare that focused on mandatory work requirements. It imposes strict requirements and lifetime limits that force non-exempt individuals to work or risk sanctions. The law particularly impacts persons with disabilities because of the substantial numbers who believe they are unable to work. This article uses findings from a research study to discuss barriers faced by individuals with physical disabilities who are forced to find work under welfare reform. It highlights the experiences of African Americans who have the added burden of health disparities because of discriminatory and differential practices in diagnoses, treatment, access, and utilization. It also presents practice implications. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Docu ment Delivery Service: 1-800-HA WORTH. E-mail address: <docdelivery@haworthpress.com > Website: < https://www.HaworthPress.com > © 2002 by The Haworth Press, Inc. Allrights reserved.]