Facing $1 billion deficit, Arizona sharply limits welfare

PHOENIX (AP) -- Arizona families can now get welfare for no more than one year in their lifetime - the shortest time limit in the nation.

Policy analysts say most states impose a five-year lifetime limit, while 13 states limit the benefits to two years or less.

Arizona's Republican-led legislature made the cuts to make good on the governor's pledge to avoid tax increases.

It means at least 1,600 Arizona families will lose their welfare starting in July.

Welfare is federally funded, but Gov. Doug Ducey's office called the cuts necessary to protect taxpayers and elementary education as the state faces a $1 billion budget deficit.