DPSS ePolicy

To convert existing policy to new writing style only

The purpose of the compliance process is to promote participation in Welfare-to-Work (WtW)/Refugee Employment Program (REP) activities by assisting REP participants in determining and removing obstacles and barriers that prevent successful participation and completion of REP requirements.  The overall goal of the compliance process is to reach a positive resolution that enables the participant to attain self-sufficiency and make a positive impact on Work Participation Rates.  

Non-compliance (NC) is the first step in attempting to resolve participation issues, even though REP participation is usually based on the results of mutually agreed upon plans between the County and REP participants.  Whenever mandatory REP participants fail to comply with required appointments, participate in program activities or comply with his/her REP employment plan without Good Cause, the compliance process is initiated.  REP Provider staff are unable to sanction a REP participant; therefore, the sanction must be initiated by designated County Issuance Approval (CIA) GAIN Services Workers.

Cause Determination (CD)

An investigation to determine Good Cause or no Good Cause when a participant fails or refuses to meet WtW/REP requirements.  This can often lead to resumed participation and the avoidance of a sanction.

Compliance Plan

A step in the compliance process in which a participant, whom the County determined did not have Good Cause, is given the opportunity to prevent a sanction by agreeing to meet the conditions of and sign a compliance plan.

County Issuance Approval (CIA) Staff

County staff that are responsible for reviewing and authorizing transportation and ancillary issuances, and handling compliance, exemption, and time limit reviews for contracted offices.

Good Cause

An approved good reason presented by the participant that is relevant to the issue of non-participation in a REP activity, and can often lead to resumed participation and the avoidance of a sanction.  This can also excuse an individual from participating in REP for a defined period of time.

Non-Compliance (NC)

Failure or refusal to follow WtW/REP requirements.

Below are the REP participation requirements the participant must adhere to in order to be in compliance.

REP participant is required to adhere to some conditions in order to be in compliance with REP.

1. Sign a REP contract, Self-Sufficiency Plan, and/or a WtW Plan;
2. Participate in program activities as agreed in the WtW Plan;
3. Show satisfactory progress in an assigned activity;
4. Adhere to a compliance plan;
5. Accept a job offer or a job referral;
6. Retain employment; and/or
7. Maintain a level of earnings for a mandatory participant who becomes employed for 20/30/32/35 hours or more per week at minimum wage.

No documents are required from the REP participant unless he/she requests Good Cause or exemption.