The maximum welfare benefit levels in most states

A) by law are 1.5 times the poverty income threshold.
B) by law must equal the poverty income threshold.
C) are significantly above the poverty income threshold.
D) are significantly below the poverty income threshold.

Welfare benefit levels in most states are significantly below the poverty income threshold. This means that although welfare programs aim to provide financial support to individuals and families in need, the amount they receive is often not enough to lift them out of poverty. This is a point of concern for policymakers and advocates who argue that welfare reform is necessary to adequately support low-income Americans.