Plain English Breakdown
The exact date of implementation depends on when the California Statewide Automated Welfare System is ready for automation.
CalWORKs Rules on Domestic Abuse Waivers and Safety Information
This law requires California counties to grant waivers from program rules for CalWORKs applicants or recipients who are victims of domestic abuse if following the rules would make it harder for them to escape or stay safe.
What This Bill Does
- Requires counties to waive a program requirement when compliance makes it more difficult for an applicant, recipient, or their children to escape abuse or stay safe after escaping.
- Mandates that counties find 'good cause' for waivers if following rules would unfairly penalize victims of domestic abuse or put them at risk of further abuse.
- Orders the State Department of Social Services to create uniform written materials and a standard form to help people request safety waivers.
- Requires counties to give these new forms and information sheets to every CalWORKs applicant and recipient as specified by law.
- Sets rules for counties to tell applicants quickly if their waiver is approved or denied, including specific reasons if it is denied.
Who It Names or Affects
- CalWORKs applicants who are past or present victims of domestic abuse.
- Current CalWORKs recipients facing safety risks due to program requirements.
- County welfare agencies that must process waivers and distribute new materials.
- The State Department of Social Services, which must create the standard forms and guides.
Terms To Know
- CalWORKs
- California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids; a state program that gives cash aid and benefits to low-income families.
- Waiver
- An official permission from the county to skip certain program rules, such as work requirements.
- Good cause
- A valid reason recognized by law that allows a person to be excused from meeting specific program requirements.
Limits and Unknowns
- The new rules will not start until January 1, 2028, or when the state computer system is ready for them.
- Reimbursement of costs to counties depends on a future decision by the Commission on State Mandates.