ACL 09-50: Access To Public Assistance Case Records (9/30/09)

Supplements ACL 07-29 and reminds CWDs of state requirements that CWDs provide clients and their ARs unrestricted access to non-privileged or non-confidential information in public assistance case records, and to clarify existing law and regulations pertaining to client access to their case files. Access is not limitedto cases in which a hearing is requested. Counties are reminded that they must provide information that is supportive of a claimant’s position. There is a discussion of what may (or may not) be privileged, and a recommendation to get guidance from county counsel. [Download]

ACL 09-45: Foster Care , Kinship Guardianship Assistance Payment Program And Adoption Assistance Program (9/30/09)

Budget bill implementation meets Child Welfare payments: AB 4 requires certain rates paid in the Foster Care Program decreased effective October 1, 2009. The state-approved foster care rates for out-of-home placements and Foster Care are provided in the letter. On the positive side, it also provides the new clothing supplemental payment information and that the infant supplement remains unchanged. [Download]