[영문]Prior to January 1, 1997, individuals with drug- or alcohol-related disabilities could qualify for federal public assistance through theSupplemental Security Income (SSI) program. During the welfarereforms of the Clinton administration, this policy was changed,resulting in lost income and health care benefits for many low-incomesubstance abusers. This paper examines the historical underpinningsto the elimination of drug addiction and alcoholism(DAqqqamp;A) as qualifying impairments for SSI disability payments.Following this, empirical evidence is presented on the effect thispolicy change had on the subsequent economic security of formerSSI DAqqqamp;A beneficiaries. Findings indicate that study participantswho lost SSI benefits suffered increased economic hardshipfollowing the policy change. These findings have importantimplications for future social welfare policymaking decisions