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By VALARIE THORPE
Ci^Mil Newt Service
RICHMOND — Virginia’s law books may need to add a few more chapters to include the 876 laws that went into effect on July 1.
Though large, the number is only slightly higher than the 846 laws that hit the books this time last year.
Gov. George Allen listed the welfare-to-work law as the most significant measure to pass this year.
The welfare reform measure, titled the Virginia Independence Program, requires all able-bodied recipients to work to receive benefits. Regardless of whether they are working, however, benefits stop after two years. Recipients may be eligible for reduced transition assistance during the third year.
The plan will be phased in statewide over a four-year period, explained Ken Stroupe, Gov. Allen’s press secretary. The first five counties, including Rappahannock, began the program on July 1. Region two, around Lynchburg, will join the program in the fall. After five pilot programs are fully implemented, the phasing of the rest of the state will be determined in the spring of 1996.
Mr. Stroupe said the pilot areas were chosen based in the abilities of the local social services department to
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