Alaska's Welfare Caseload Down 34 Percent.

• Position: Brief Article - Statistical Data Included

Alaskans are heading into jobs and training programs in record numbers and smaller welfare caseloads have resulted in a $116 million reduction in welfare payments over the past three fiscal years, according to Coy. Tony Knowles.

Alaska's welfare caseload has declined 34 percent since a new program began in July 1997. Of those remaining on welfare, 74 percent are employed or are involved in some other work activity, according to The Welfare Reform Status Report 2000.

"The number of people working is at an all-time high, with more than 277,000 Alaskans on the job last year," Knowles said. "And, for the...