DPSS ePolicy

To convert existing policy to new writing style only

An exemption is a condition or circumstance that excludes a participant from participating in a Welfare-to-Work (WtW) activity for as long as the condition or circumstance continues to exist. The exemption is subject to frequent review. Regulations require that documentation be on file when a participant is determined to be exempt from Refugee Employment Program (REP) participation

Exemptions requested by Refugee Case Managers (RCMs) for CalWORKs and Refugee Cash Assistance participants in the REP must be referred to County Issuance Approval (CIA) staff.  CIA staff must evaluate and make final determinations on exemption recommendations submitted by RCMs.

CIA Staff 

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

Below are the required actions participants must follow to request an exemption from participating in REP.

Exemption request

At contact with the RCM, the participant must complete and submit the CW 2186A, CalWORKs Exemption Request Form.

Third party verification

Within ten days from contact with the RCM, the participant is required to submit the third party verification documentation CW 61, Authorization to Release Medical Information Form, when requesting a medical exemption.

Exemption request determination 

Upon receipt of the CW 61 Form or other third party verification, the RCM sends the GN 6164, Potential Exemption Gram (Attachment I), and the CW 61 Form to CIA for approval/denial of exemption.

Exemption approval/denial

Within 15 calendar days, the RCM must notify the participant in writing whether his/her exemption request was approved or denied by sending the CW 2186B, CalWORKs Exemption Determination Notice. 

Exemption request

CW 2186A, CalWORKs Exemption Request Form.

Exemption verification

CW 61, Authorization to Release Medical Information Form, or other third party verification document.