The California Department of Social Services has issued instructions implementing voluntary self-identification of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI). Although counties must ask about SOGI, applicant or recipient responses are voluntary. CDSS has created form CW 2223 for this purpose. Counties must use the CW 2223 for applications and redetermination/recertifications. All primary caretaker relatives, including minor parents/caretaker relatives, who elect to disclose this information complete their own CW 2223 form. Applicants and recipients must be given the opportunity to complete the form regardless of whether the application or redetermination/recertification is done by phone, in person or on line. For example, if the interview is done by phone, the form should be mailed to the client.
The CW 2223 is not programmed into the county computer systems. The letter contains instructions for how county workers need to enter the information into the computer systems.
For CAPI only cases, the CAPI application includes optional SOGI questions so the CW 2223 form does not need to be used.
Counties should do periodic training of front line staff on SOGI sensitivity and best practices. According to CDSS, some best practices include explaining why the questions are being asked and that the responses are confidential, and using gender-neutral language such as partner or significant other. (ACL 18-133, November 8, 2018.)