Safety in the Safety Net: TANF Reauthorization Provisions Relevant to Domestic Violence

Publication Date: October 2004

Publisher: Center for Law and Social Policy

Author(s): Nisha Patel; Vicki Turetsky

Research Area: Social conditions

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. A number of studies confirm the high level of domestic violence among the low-income women served by the TANF program. According to the research, about 20 percent of women receiving cash assistance are current victims of domestic violence, while about 50 to 60 percent have experienced domestic violence during their adulthood. This paper summarizes key provisions in the TANF reauthorization bills of particular importance to domestic violence survivors and their advocates.