Given the increased workloads, DSS is offering counties the option to change the sample size used to determine compliance with federal work participation rates, although maintaining the methodology. [Download]
Summaries of select CalWORKs, CalFresh, Health and Housing Regulations
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ACL 09-06: Online Intentional Program Violators Database Program (1/27/09)
Conveys the implementation of an online Intentional Program Violation (IPV) reporting and inquiry system, for Food Stamp and CalWORKs. This puts an end to sending IPV info to the state Fraud unit, to manually enter into a database. Counties need to appoint which staff can access the database. [Download]
ACIN I-16-09: One-Stop System (2/26/09)
Information on employment and training services available to Counties through the One-Stop System. Includes how to navigate the EDD website to find One Stops, and a review of the adult and youth services available. [Download]
ACL 09-01: New ‘Request For Verification’ Form (CW 2200) For Verifying Eligibility In The CalWORKs And Food Stamp Programs (3/12/09)
Transmits a new, statewide “Request for Verification” form for verifying eligibility. Consistency and efficiency rules! The form informs clients of their rights and responsibilities in regards to verifying their eligibility. It informs clients that they can ask for help if they are having trouble getting verification and that counties can help pay for verification if necessary. It also provides suggested types of acceptable verification and includes a client authorization for release of information so that counties can work directly with a third party to obtain verification when necessary. It will be translated into 17 languages.
This form is not intended to be used to verify hours of participation in work activities. [Download]
ACL 09-14: CalWORKs) Program Immunization Requirements (3/12/09)
Notice that there is a Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine shortage. One year olds will still get their first HiB vaccine, but may have the booster held off. This counts as “unavailable,” and thus meets the “good faith” exception to the immunization requirements for CalWORKs. [Download]
ACL 09-07: TANF Work Verification Plan (3/5/09)
Effective 10/1/08, here’s the “how to verify WTW activities” letter. Reminder to counties that this is JUST for counting towards federal work participation, and does not alter CalWORKs rules (i.e. individual assessment used to develop assignment of activities). Of note: study time; excused absences; job search time calculation as hours not calendar weeks; BA’s and other advanced degrees are permissible voc ed. Finally, the letter describes permissible verification of hours of participation: The verifying party confirms the participant was enrolled in an allowable course of study during the period of time for which hours are being reported and that the hours of participation correspond to the days classes are scheduled.
Counties are reminded that homework time must be allowed in the County plan, but are encouraged to use language that is not overly narrow to ensure inherent flexibility to accommodate any regulatory changes to this provision in the future. [Download]