The new welfare reform law, signed by President Clinton, will have a major impact on the poor.

The new welfare reform law, signed by President Clinton, will have a major impact on the poor. Among its provisions, Medicaid benefits, including dental care, will be restricted for both legal and illegal aliens. Hospitals will be required to provide the immigration status of any patient at the request of authorities, a policy that many believe will keep illegal immigrants who are sick from getting care. New restrictions on food stamps, also part of welfare reform, could affect the health and well-being of poor children.

Judi Hasson

Washington Correspondent