Neo-liberal poverty governance: race, place and the punitive turn in US welfare policy

Abstract

This article provides empirical evidence on the operation and effects of the neo-liberal system of poverty governance emerging in the United States. Relying on data collected on Florida, a state recognized for innovation in implementing welfare reform, we present findings that demonstrate systematic inequities in the way sanctions are applied to clients who fail to comply with participation requirements in Florida's welfare-to-work programme. Our findings underscore how the enduring influence of race, place and their interaction are critical to the emerging neo-liberal system of poverty governance.