I disagree. I think it's more likely that we're still using programs designed for a different era. For example, food stamps (SNAP) were made permanent in 1964

I disagree. I think it's more likely that we're still using programs designed for a different era. For example, food stamps (SNAP) were made permanent in 1964 as one of the great society programs. WIC came a few years later. I suspect - but have not researched - that you will find this is true for a lot of current welfare programs. There may be people in power making bad decisions about administering these programs, but I don't believe they were designed to ensnare.