1) The document discusses Pennsylvania's welfare sanction policies, which allow benefits to be denied or reduced if recipients do not follow certain rules without good cause. Sanctions have increased significantly in recent years.
2) Recipients can be sanctioned for issues like not cooperating with child support enforcement, not signing paperwork, or not meeting work requirements. Sanctions start by reducing just the individual's benefits but can eventually terminate benefits for the whole family.
3) It is important for recipients to appeal sanction threats to argue they had good cause for any noncompliance and to avoid the long-term negative impacts of sanctions. Common good causes include things outside a recipient's control like transportation, childcare, or health issues.
Presentation provided to Victim Services Program to look at the importance of working together, making referrals and the resources available to front line workers
Presentation provided to Victim Services Program to look at the importance of working together, making referrals and the resources available to front line workers
Like most, unless you know someone who has been disabled, you may not see the value of Disability Insurance. You may think it won't happen to you, but if it does, you are vulnerable to lost income.
This presentation was given on 12/14/21 to help professional and lay caregivers understand how to help seniors in issues involving public benefits, including Social Security, SSI, Medicare, Institutional Medicaid and Medicare Savings Programs.
Achieving permanency for foster children through concurrent planning. Guides outline case planning that includes reunification for families and steps leading to adoption when reunification is not an option.
Are you ready to take care of an aging Parents?? Many of us are faced with these challenges in our life and have no Idea about the ramifications on your life. It is a great to discuss ideas with your parents and family members about a strong network plan for the possibilities.
Safeguarding Children & Young People OnlineClaudia Megele
The 10 Cs Risk and Resilience Typology & CARE Analytics. Presentation for PSW network in Dec. 2018 outlining research findings undertaken by Claudia Megele and Peter Buzzi.
The Georgia Child Welfare Legal Academy hosted The Honorable J. Russell Jackson and The Honorable John Sumner who presented their findings and recommendations for Children in Need of Services.
Navigating Support Systems for Dementia Home Care in India (ARDSICON2019)Swapna Kishore
In India bulk of dementia care happens at home and is the responsibility of family members. Additionally, dementia and care related awareness and support is very poor. Families don’t know what may be needed and where to start. They face challenges in care and also in navigating systems around them. They may not reach suitable education or guidance, or reliable services that can help. Most training and advice focus on actual dementia related care tasks, but offer very little in terms of how to achieve acceptable levels of these in the current environment.
This presentation looks at how family caregivers in India look for information and support and their experiences related to support. It looks at challenges families face given inadequate support systems. Personal stories provide insight into real life experiences of families. The presentation may help caregivers appreciate support realities and provide them ideas on what they can consider. Persons supporting caregivers (professionals, volunteers, social entrepreneurs) may get input that helps them decide where to focus their effort; this includes ways to help caregivers navigate existing systems better as well as how to prioritise creation of new interventions.
Accessing behavioral health treatment for minor children in Washington State ...Peggy Dolane
When your child turns 13 in Washington State, parents lose the ability to make medically necessary mental health treatment decisions. This presentation walks parents through the steps to access care and how to become involved in changing our system.
Early Intervention: a regional perspectiveYfoundations
(Diversity) This workshop was facilitated by Jessica Toole, Tamworth Youth Care.
With early intervention and prevention being approaches to ending youth homelessness proving the most apt at ensuring young people do not become entrenched in a life of homelessness and marginalisation, Tamworth Youth Care has implemented at Early Intervention and Prevention program which focuses solely on working with young people at risk of or who have recently fallen into homelessness. This presentation covers the aims and design of the program which operates in a regional area of NSW.
Medical improv-Draft: Google Event 8/13/13 http://bit.ly/1aLt5XUBeth Boynton
Improv or “Medical Improv”* builds skills that promote the emergent behaviors we need for collaborative practice and cultures. In this 75 min presentation, you’ll learn how the principles of improv can be applied to critical skills, thinking, and relationship-building among healthcare professionals. You’ll meet pioneers in the “Medical Improv” field, explore opportunities for utilizing current strategies, learn about upcoming applications, and participate in Q and A. Join Organizational Development, Consultant Beth Boynton, RN, MS with Co-presenter Stephanie Frederick, RN, M.Ed and and Sponsor, Judy White, SPHR, GPHR in an invitation to learn more about cutting-edge applications of Improv in healthcare settings.
“Medical Improv”, is a term coined by Professor Katie Watson, JD of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in her curriculum for medical students.
www.confideentvoices.com
Since, as stated several times as illustrated in the cases, we believe that Analytics is a key component to produce true innovation, and early proof that it will generate value.
Avoiding Workplace Pitfalls for Domestic and Foreign Workers - Discrimination...Badmus & Associates
Employment lawsuits and government audits and investigations are at a record high. In 2013 the government settled the largest immigration fine in history with a Plano, TX based company in the amount of $34 million for charges of visa and I-9 non-compliance. Avoid the penalties, damages, and negative publicity for those who have been caught unaware. Regardless of size or industry, your company must be able to prove its observance of federal and state employment laws and regulations concerning both domestic and foreign workers. The Frisco Chamber of Commerce International Business Council and Cowles & Thompson, PC present three educational events to help your organization meet regulatory challenges for your domestic and foreign employee workforce.
This presentation gives tips and tools to prevent and defend against employment and immigration discrimination claims.
Like most, unless you know someone who has been disabled, you may not see the value of Disability Insurance. You may think it won't happen to you, but if it does, you are vulnerable to lost income.
This presentation was given on 12/14/21 to help professional and lay caregivers understand how to help seniors in issues involving public benefits, including Social Security, SSI, Medicare, Institutional Medicaid and Medicare Savings Programs.
Achieving permanency for foster children through concurrent planning. Guides outline case planning that includes reunification for families and steps leading to adoption when reunification is not an option.
Are you ready to take care of an aging Parents?? Many of us are faced with these challenges in our life and have no Idea about the ramifications on your life. It is a great to discuss ideas with your parents and family members about a strong network plan for the possibilities.
Safeguarding Children & Young People OnlineClaudia Megele
The 10 Cs Risk and Resilience Typology & CARE Analytics. Presentation for PSW network in Dec. 2018 outlining research findings undertaken by Claudia Megele and Peter Buzzi.
The Georgia Child Welfare Legal Academy hosted The Honorable J. Russell Jackson and The Honorable John Sumner who presented their findings and recommendations for Children in Need of Services.
Navigating Support Systems for Dementia Home Care in India (ARDSICON2019)Swapna Kishore
In India bulk of dementia care happens at home and is the responsibility of family members. Additionally, dementia and care related awareness and support is very poor. Families don’t know what may be needed and where to start. They face challenges in care and also in navigating systems around them. They may not reach suitable education or guidance, or reliable services that can help. Most training and advice focus on actual dementia related care tasks, but offer very little in terms of how to achieve acceptable levels of these in the current environment.
This presentation looks at how family caregivers in India look for information and support and their experiences related to support. It looks at challenges families face given inadequate support systems. Personal stories provide insight into real life experiences of families. The presentation may help caregivers appreciate support realities and provide them ideas on what they can consider. Persons supporting caregivers (professionals, volunteers, social entrepreneurs) may get input that helps them decide where to focus their effort; this includes ways to help caregivers navigate existing systems better as well as how to prioritise creation of new interventions.
Accessing behavioral health treatment for minor children in Washington State ...Peggy Dolane
When your child turns 13 in Washington State, parents lose the ability to make medically necessary mental health treatment decisions. This presentation walks parents through the steps to access care and how to become involved in changing our system.
Early Intervention: a regional perspectiveYfoundations
(Diversity) This workshop was facilitated by Jessica Toole, Tamworth Youth Care.
With early intervention and prevention being approaches to ending youth homelessness proving the most apt at ensuring young people do not become entrenched in a life of homelessness and marginalisation, Tamworth Youth Care has implemented at Early Intervention and Prevention program which focuses solely on working with young people at risk of or who have recently fallen into homelessness. This presentation covers the aims and design of the program which operates in a regional area of NSW.
Medical improv-Draft: Google Event 8/13/13 http://bit.ly/1aLt5XUBeth Boynton
Improv or “Medical Improv”* builds skills that promote the emergent behaviors we need for collaborative practice and cultures. In this 75 min presentation, you’ll learn how the principles of improv can be applied to critical skills, thinking, and relationship-building among healthcare professionals. You’ll meet pioneers in the “Medical Improv” field, explore opportunities for utilizing current strategies, learn about upcoming applications, and participate in Q and A. Join Organizational Development, Consultant Beth Boynton, RN, MS with Co-presenter Stephanie Frederick, RN, M.Ed and and Sponsor, Judy White, SPHR, GPHR in an invitation to learn more about cutting-edge applications of Improv in healthcare settings.
“Medical Improv”, is a term coined by Professor Katie Watson, JD of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in her curriculum for medical students.
www.confideentvoices.com
Since, as stated several times as illustrated in the cases, we believe that Analytics is a key component to produce true innovation, and early proof that it will generate value.
Avoiding Workplace Pitfalls for Domestic and Foreign Workers - Discrimination...Badmus & Associates
Employment lawsuits and government audits and investigations are at a record high. In 2013 the government settled the largest immigration fine in history with a Plano, TX based company in the amount of $34 million for charges of visa and I-9 non-compliance. Avoid the penalties, damages, and negative publicity for those who have been caught unaware. Regardless of size or industry, your company must be able to prove its observance of federal and state employment laws and regulations concerning both domestic and foreign workers. The Frisco Chamber of Commerce International Business Council and Cowles & Thompson, PC present three educational events to help your organization meet regulatory challenges for your domestic and foreign employee workforce.
This presentation gives tips and tools to prevent and defend against employment and immigration discrimination claims.
Managing Leaves of Absence and Accommodating Disabilities (Protecting Your Em...Financial Poise
Your business likely functions more effectively when your employees are at work doing the work you hired them to perform? What are your rights (and obligations) as an employer when an employee is unable to work due to an illness or injury? Does the Family and Medical Leave Act apply? Do you operate in a jurisdiction that has recently enacted a sick leave law? What happens when an employee requests a reasonable accommodation because of a disability? These types of questions have been confounding employers for years and are likely to grow more complicated as state and local governments step in to fill the voids left at the federal level. Do not despair, though, as this webinar includes discussions of the mistakes commonly made by employers as well as a series of tips and pointers from a panel of experts who will help you navigate these and other thorny issues involving employees who are unable to work for health-related reasons.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/time-for-a-break-managing-leaves-of-absence-and-accommodating-disabilities-2021/
Time for a Break: Managing Leaves of Absence and Accommodating Disabilities (...Financial Poise
Your business likely functions more effectively when your employees are at work doing the work you hired them to perform? What are your rights (and obligations) as an employer when an employee is unable to work due to an illness or injury? Does the Family and Medical Leave Act apply? Do you operate in a jurisdiction that has recently enacted a sick leave law? What happens when an employee requests a reasonable accommodation because of a disability? These types of questions have been confounding employers for years and are likely to grow more complicated as state and local governments step in to fill the voids left at the federal level. Do not despair, though, as this webinar includes discussions of the mistakes commonly made by employers as well as a series of tips and pointers from a panel of experts who will help you navigate these and other thorny issues involving employees who are unable to work for health-related reasons.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/managing-leaves-of-absence-and-accommodating-disabilities-2020/
SNT in New Jersey
Call our office today. Ask for Mr. Niemann to personally discuss your New Jersey Special Needs Trust.
Call him toll-free at (855) 376-5291
or e-mail him at fniemann@hnlawfirm.com.
He looks forward to meeting with you.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income ...mitoaction
Please join us on Friday, August 7, 2015 as we welcome two experts in the field of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provide an overview of these public benefits for Mito patients. Topics to be covered in this conference call include:
Overview of SSI and SSDI programs;
The differences between SSI and SSDI;
Social Security’s definition of disability as it pertains to mitochondrial disease;
How SSDI is designed to work, eligibility criteria, and the full range of SSDI benefitts;
The application and appeals processes for SSI and SSDI;
Resources available to support SSI and SSDI applications and appeals processes;
Information on SSI and SSDI benefits for adult disabled children;
Returning to work after obtaining social security benefits (the "Ticket to Work Program");
Specific challenges for individuals with mitochondrial disease in applying for SSDI and how to address them; and
The benefits of professional representation and how to evaluate representation options.
Since its rocky roll out in October 2013, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has been the subject of controversy and debate. But much of this has obscured the simple fact that, despite a number of changes that have been made to the law in recent months, the ACA’s major provisions still remain in force.
New Jersey SNT Estate Planning Attorney.
Call our office today. Ask for Mr. Niemann to personally discuss your New Jersey Special Needs Trust.
Call him toll-free at (855) 376-5291
or e-mail him at fniemann@hnlawfirm.com.
He looks forward to meeting with you.
Navigating Health Insurance in the Health Care Reform Era lkennon
A presentation for large employers, small employers and individuals without employer-based insurance. The slides present the current state of health insurance for each group and the impending changes of Health Care Reform and their potential effects.
Falcon stands out as a top-tier P2P Invoice Discounting platform in India, bridging esteemed blue-chip companies and eager investors. Our goal is to transform the investment landscape in India by establishing a comprehensive destination for borrowers and investors with diverse profiles and needs, all while minimizing risk. What sets Falcon apart is the elimination of intermediaries such as commercial banks and depository institutions, allowing investors to enjoy higher yields.
Discover the innovative and creative projects that highlight my journey throu...dylandmeas
Discover the innovative and creative projects that highlight my journey through Full Sail University. Below, you’ll find a collection of my work showcasing my skills and expertise in digital marketing, event planning, and media production.
VAT Registration Outlined In UAE: Benefits and Requirementsuae taxgpt
Vat Registration is a legal obligation for businesses meeting the threshold requirement, helping companies avoid fines and ramifications. Contact now!
https://viralsocialtrends.com/vat-registration-outlined-in-uae/
Premium MEAN Stack Development Solutions for Modern BusinessesSynapseIndia
Stay ahead of the curve with our premium MEAN Stack Development Solutions. Our expert developers utilize MongoDB, Express.js, AngularJS, and Node.js to create modern and responsive web applications. Trust us for cutting-edge solutions that drive your business growth and success.
Know more: https://www.synapseindia.com/technology/mean-stack-development-company.html
Implicitly or explicitly all competing businesses employ a strategy to select a mix
of marketing resources. Formulating such competitive strategies fundamentally
involves recognizing relationships between elements of the marketing mix (e.g.,
price and product quality), as well as assessing competitive and market conditions
(i.e., industry structure in the language of economics).
Personal Brand Statement:
As an Army veteran dedicated to lifelong learning, I bring a disciplined, strategic mindset to my pursuits. I am constantly expanding my knowledge to innovate and lead effectively. My journey is driven by a commitment to excellence, and to make a meaningful impact in the world.
Memorandum Of Association Constitution of Company.pptseri bangash
www.seribangash.com
A Memorandum of Association (MOA) is a legal document that outlines the fundamental principles and objectives upon which a company operates. It serves as the company's charter or constitution and defines the scope of its activities. Here's a detailed note on the MOA:
Contents of Memorandum of Association:
Name Clause: This clause states the name of the company, which should end with words like "Limited" or "Ltd." for a public limited company and "Private Limited" or "Pvt. Ltd." for a private limited company.
https://seribangash.com/article-of-association-is-legal-doc-of-company/
Registered Office Clause: It specifies the location where the company's registered office is situated. This office is where all official communications and notices are sent.
Objective Clause: This clause delineates the main objectives for which the company is formed. It's important to define these objectives clearly, as the company cannot undertake activities beyond those mentioned in this clause.
www.seribangash.com
Liability Clause: It outlines the extent of liability of the company's members. In the case of companies limited by shares, the liability of members is limited to the amount unpaid on their shares. For companies limited by guarantee, members' liability is limited to the amount they undertake to contribute if the company is wound up.
https://seribangash.com/promotors-is-person-conceived-formation-company/
Capital Clause: This clause specifies the authorized capital of the company, i.e., the maximum amount of share capital the company is authorized to issue. It also mentions the division of this capital into shares and their respective nominal value.
Association Clause: It simply states that the subscribers wish to form a company and agree to become members of it, in accordance with the terms of the MOA.
Importance of Memorandum of Association:
Legal Requirement: The MOA is a legal requirement for the formation of a company. It must be filed with the Registrar of Companies during the incorporation process.
Constitutional Document: It serves as the company's constitutional document, defining its scope, powers, and limitations.
Protection of Members: It protects the interests of the company's members by clearly defining the objectives and limiting their liability.
External Communication: It provides clarity to external parties, such as investors, creditors, and regulatory authorities, regarding the company's objectives and powers.
https://seribangash.com/difference-public-and-private-company-law/
Binding Authority: The company and its members are bound by the provisions of the MOA. Any action taken beyond its scope may be considered ultra vires (beyond the powers) of the company and therefore void.
Amendment of MOA:
While the MOA lays down the company's fundamental principles, it is not entirely immutable. It can be amended, but only under specific circumstances and in compliance with legal procedures. Amendments typically require shareholder
Unveiling the Secrets How Does Generative AI Work.pdfSam H
At its core, generative artificial intelligence relies on the concept of generative models, which serve as engines that churn out entirely new data resembling their training data. It is like a sculptor who has studied so many forms found in nature and then uses this knowledge to create sculptures from his imagination that have never been seen before anywhere else. If taken to cyberspace, gans work almost the same way.
Putting the SPARK into Virtual Training.pptxCynthia Clay
This 60-minute webinar, sponsored by Adobe, was delivered for the Training Mag Network. It explored the five elements of SPARK: Storytelling, Purpose, Action, Relationships, and Kudos. Knowing how to tell a well-structured story is key to building long-term memory. Stating a clear purpose that doesn't take away from the discovery learning process is critical. Ensuring that people move from theory to practical application is imperative. Creating strong social learning is the key to commitment and engagement. Validating and affirming participants' comments is the way to create a positive learning environment.
3.0 Project 2_ Developing My Brand Identity Kit.pptxtanyjahb
A personal brand exploration presentation summarizes an individual's unique qualities and goals, covering strengths, values, passions, and target audience. It helps individuals understand what makes them stand out, their desired image, and how they aim to achieve it.
3.0 Project 2_ Developing My Brand Identity Kit.pptx
Welfare Sanctions
1. Year 2, Staff Training #5:
Pennsylvania Welfare Sanction Policy
By Laura Handel, Esq.
Staff Attorney
The Health, Education and Legal Assistance Project:
A Medical-Legal Partnership between
Widener University School of Law and Crozer-Keystone
Healthy Start
(HELP: MLP-CKHS)
1
2. What are sanctions?
The
denial of benefits for which a person or
family are eligible because of an alleged
transgression.
Sanctions can be for employment, child
support, personal responsibility or fraud
related reasons.
This training will focus on employmentrelated and support-related sanctions.
2
3. What are sanctions?
If TANF recipients do not follow certain DPW rules
and do not have “good cause” or an exemption, they
will be “sanctioned.”
The CAO will “sanction” a noncompliant benefit
recipient by reducing her monthly cash grant.
–
–
–
Can reduce just her share or her whole family’s share.
Reductions can be temporary or permanent.
Repeated violations can lead to terminations of benefits that
are permanent for either just the noncompliant head of
household or her children as well.
4. Why is this subject important now?
Sanctions
are used as a strategy to reduce
caseload – related to DPW philosophy and
budget
New sanctions up 130% from January to
August 2011
Sanctions that were in effect already now up
72%
4
5. Another view
Grow th in Sanctions and new sanctions
1600
1400
1200
1000
New Sanctions (statewide)
800
Sanctions in effect (statewide)
600
400
200
0
Jan10
Feb10
M ar10
Apr10
M ay10
Jun10
Jul10
Aug10
Sep10
Oct10
Nov10
Dec10
Jan11
Feb11
M ar11
Apr11
M ay11
Jun11
Jul-11 Aug11
Sep11
5
6. What are sanctions?
Recipients can be sanctioned for:
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Failing to cooperate with support enforcement
Failing to sign her Agreement of Mutual Responsibility
(AMR)
Failing to cooperate with the work or “wrok-related activity”
requirement on an AMR
Voluntarily quitting a job
Voluntarily reducing earnings
Failing to apply for work
Failing to accept a bona fide offer for a job that the recipient
could do
7. What are sanctions?
IMPORTANT ISSUES TO BE AWARE OF:
1.
Sometimes a recipient does not even realize that she has
been, or is being, sanctioned.
(a) The biggest clue that a recipient has been sanctioned is if her welfare
grant is less than the maximum for her family size (unless she has
earnings or other income that would explain why the grant is
reduced)
1.
Sometimes benefit recipients do realize that they are
being sanctioned, but choose to accept the penalty
without an appeal.
(a) This is harmful. If you spot or hear about such a situation,
contact the HELP: MLP attorneys for advice about or help
with an appeal.
8. Why do some recipients accept
sanctions without appeal?
Confusion – difference between termination and
sanction.
Resignation – “what can I do? I can’t win.”
Guilt – “I did it so I should take my punishment.”
Belief (justified or not) that no attorneys or
advocates available to help - “Legal Services
probably won’t handle it.”
“It’s only 30 days.”
9. Key concepts
Willful noncompliance
–
DPW may only sanction a recipient for violating rules if “the noncompliance
was willful and without good cause.” (CAH §135.712)
Good Cause
–
–
Corollary: recipient cannot be sanctioned if she had a good cause reason for why
she did not follow a rule.
Asking to be excused from TANF, GA or CCIS program requirements for
reasons beyond the recipient’s control or because the requirements would
endanger her or unfairly penalize her for hardship circumstances is called
“requesting a waiver ” or “claiming good cause.” If good cause is established,
no sanction should be imposed, and existing or past sanctions should be lifted
or rescinded.
An “exemption” or “good cause” can be established AFTER a sanction is
threatened or imposed, as well as before.
Reasonable accommodation
–
The CAO is required to make a good faith effort to assist the client in
overcoming whatever problems she had complying with work requirements
(CAH §135.5) or for accommodating other hardship circumstances that may
9
arise due to disability, domestic violence or substance abuse.
10. How does the sanction process work?
AMR
Alleged
violation
Advanced notice (sanction threat)
Compliance review
–
Determining good cause
Fresh
start vs. sanction
Ending the sanction or sending notice of
sanction
10
11. How will a recipient know if she’s
being sanctioned?
For
either a child support or a work-related
sanction, DPW is required to send advance
notice to the recipient, telling her she’s about
to be sanctioned.
–
Recipient should APPEAL THIS NOTICE
IMMEDIATELY, and ask for “aid paid pending.”
12. How will a recipient know if she’s
being sanctioned?
For a work-related sanction, DPW is must offer to conduct a
“compliance review” before actually imposing the sanction.
–
–
If DPW imposes a sanction without first offering a compliance review
sanction, the sanction is illegal – appeal IMMEDIATELY!
If no notice of sanction is received, sanction has probably been
imposed if the Cash Assistance grant is less than it should be for the
family size/income level.
At the compliance review, the recipient can explain why she did or
did not do something required of her.
The CAO is required to make a good faith effort to assist the client
in overcoming whatever problems she had complying with work
requirements (CAH §135.5). As examples, DPW should:
–
–
–
–
Reschedule appointments to better fit recipient’s schedule
Provide help with transportation
Provide help with childcare
Explore revising her AMR
13. The importance of fighting sanctions
Individuals
and families are often sanctioned
incorrectly, as a result of miscommunication,
mental illness, domestic violence, disability,
or other justifiable barriers to compliance.
Sanctions have harsh impacts in both the
short and the long term.
–
–
Support-related sanctions
Work-related sanctions
14. The importance of fighting sanctions
Support-related sanctions:
–
–
–
–
A TANF applicant/recipient is required to seek child support
and establish paternity unless she has good cause for not
doing so.
If she does not cooperate with either requirement, the
family’s grant will be reduced by at least 25%.
This benefit reduction will continue indefinitely, until the
parent cooperates or establishes “good cause.”
The noncompliant parent stays on the TANF grant (even
though her share of the cash is what’s technically being
taken away), remains subject to the work requirements, and
the benefits still count toward the five year time limit.
15. The importance of fighting sanctions
Work-related
–
–
sanctions
IMPORTANT: with work-related sanctions, it’s a
“three strikes and you’re out”-sanction scheme.
Note: these sanctions will affect Cash Assistance
benefits, specifically; they should not affect SNAP
or Medical Assistance benefits.
16. The importance of fighting sanctions
Work-related
–
sanctions
The “three strikes” system works as follows:
During
the first 24 months of TANF benefits, DPW will
only cut the part of the cash grant that is for the adult
recipient; it will not cut her children’s benefits. Therefore:
– First sanction: recipient loses her Cash Assistance
for 30 days or until she agrees to cooperate,
whichever comes later.
– Second sanction: recipient loses her Cash
Assistance for 60 days or until she agrees to
cooperate, whichever comes later.
– Third sanction: recipient loses her Cash Assistance
permanently.
17. The importance of fighting sanctions
Work-related sanctions
–
“Three strikes”-system, continued:
AFTER the first 24 months of TANF benefits, DPW will
not only cut the part of the cash grant that is for the adult
recipient; it will cut her children’s benefits as well!
Therefore:
– First sanction: whole family loses Cash Assistance
for 30 days or until adult recipient agrees to
cooperate, whichever comes later.
– Second sanction: whole family loses Cash
Assistance for 60 days or until adult recipient agrees
to cooperate, whichever comes later.
– Third sanction: whole family loses Cash Assistance
permanently.
18. How to fight sanction threats
Appeal
immediately, request “aid paid
pending” outcome of appeal
Explore why non-compliant event occurred
–
Common reasons: transportation issues, no child
care, domestic violence, illness,
misunderstanding.
Explore
possibility of “good cause” waiver
19. How to fight sanction threats
Examples of circumstances that qualify for “good cause” waiver of work
requirements (55 PA Code § 165.51):
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Recipient tried to get care for a child or adult with disabilities, but could not.
Domestic violence.
Homelessness.
Transportation problems.
Recipient or family member was ill.
Job or job training was beyond recipient’s ability, and she is willing to look for
another job or do other training.
Working conditions were substandard or unsafe, or wages paid were below
minimum wage or below the prevailing wage normally paid for that job.
Participation in drug or alcohol treatment can be “good cause” if the treatment
program prevents recipient from working at the same time.
Other personal emergency.
Special note: ANY circumstances beyond recipient’s control can probably qualify as
good cause; use common sense! If the reason was good and recipient is acting in
good faith, there’s room to advocate successfully.
20. How to fight sanction threats
Additionally:
–
–
A recipient with limited English proficiency cannot be sanctioned
for failing to attend an activity or a meeting if she was given notice
of it in a language she does not understand (Title VI of the Civil
Rights Act of 1964).
DPW cannot sanction recipient for not doing something she only
volunteered to do; may only sanction for failing to do something
she was required to do (CAH § 135.261).
–
Some items in the AMR are mandatory, some are not; recipient (or her
advocate) should always check to see what the AMR actually says!
“Benefit of the doubt” policy: DPW is supposed to give recipient the
benefit of the doubt when deciding to approve or deny her a
waiver.
DPW must consider all facts and circumstances of the alleged
violation, “especially if the transgression is relatively minor… or
isolated in nature” (55 PA Code § 165.52(b)).
21. How to fight current or past sanctions
For
sanctions that have already been
imposed:
–
–
It is sometimes possible to get a sanction lifted
while it is in effect, or even retroactively, if the
facts show that the recipient had good cause at
the time of the violation.
This is important for two reasons:
To
get back the benefits that the recipient missed
To get the “strike” removed from her record, if the
sanction was work-related, since these are subject to
the “three strike” system that will result in permanent
penalties.
22. How to prevent sanctions or sanction
threats
Recipient should:
–
–
–
–
–
–
Communicate any problems or potential problems to
caseworker in writing.
Verify information and get copies of all documents,
especially her AMR!
When possible, try to get written documentation of problems
that interfere with ability to comply with work requirements
(ie, illness of self or dependent child).
Talk to a supervisor if caseworker is unresponsive.
Notify both CAO and welfare work program contractor if an
appointment must be missed for good cause reasons.
Notify both CAO and welfare work program contractor if she
gets or loses a job.
23. Pennsylvania Welfare Sanction Policy
For
ongoing questions, consultations or
participant referrals:
–
Contact Laura Handel or Megan Mahle,
HELP: MLP/HS Staff Attorneys
Phone:
610-497-7355
E-mail: Lh.helpmlp@gmail.com or mm.helpmlp@gmail.com
Referrals can be placed in our bins in the Healthy Start office,
or
Just come knock on our doors; we’d love to see you!