Introduction
Crime, poverty, and welfare are major issues around the world. There is a correlation
between these three as they interconnect on the spectrum. Children that grow up in
poverty are more likely to end up in criminal activities when they get older. Many people
living in poverty depend on welfare programs such as food stamps, Medicaid, and
Medicare.
They may be sorted into two basic categories: public assistance and social insurance.
Public assistance programs, such as Medicaid and TANF, involve government payments
of money or in-kind benefits to disadvantaged people who meet various qualifying
criteria. Social insurance programs, such as Social Security, include recipient
contributions (e.g., the Social Security payroll tax), as well as government payments.
(Bowman & Kearney, 2018, p. 458)
Poverty Rate in Virginia
The poverty rate in Virginia is 11.2%, which means one out of 8.9 residents is living in
poverty. "Virginia ranks 12th in Poverty Rate at 11.2%. The Poverty Rate of Virginia is
significantly lower than the national average of 14.6%" (WelfareInfo, 2019). In response
to poverty, the government uses welfare programs to help low-income households
afford basic needs, like food through SNAP benefits. Data has shown those that receive
these benefits are likely to participate in criminal activities. "Two main economic
arguments support the notion that monthly SNAP payments affect crime. The first is
based on the idea that large lump-sum payments to beneficiaries constitute income
shocks, which can increase consumption of complements to crime, such as leisure or
illicit drugs and alcohol" (Carr & Packham, 2018). As a result, drunk driving and violent
crime activity rises.
Changing the Narrative
In the past, there has been conversations surrounding the idea of drug testing for those
that receive welfare benefits. Some states have already incorporated this legislation for
public assistance. Case managers for those receiving benefits can issue a drug test if
there is suspected drug abuse. Concerns have been raised that this is an act of
discrimination. Background screening and regular checks in the database for criminal
activity of recipients would also be beneficial to help reduce the improper allocation of
funds.
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References
Bowman, A.O. & Kearney, R.C. (2018). State and Local Government. Cengage
Learning.
Carr, J.B. & Packham, A. (2019). Snap Benefits and Crime: Evidence from Changing
Disbursement Schedules. https://web-s-ebscohost-
