In 1996, the old welfare program was replaced by a new and very different one. Some important changes that you and your family need to know are as follows:

24 MONTH (TWO YEAR)TIME LIMIT:

After you have received cash assistance for 24 months, you will not receive your benefits in the same form again. However, you will still receive the same overall grant value. You will also continue to receive food stamps and medicaid. (For more information, see Fact Sheets No. 7, 7a, & 9).

Note: The City is currently programming their computers to implement these changes.

WORK REQUIREMENTS:

You will be required to perform work activities unless you fit into one of a few limited categories of exempt individuals. Exempt individuals include those who are physically or mentally ill and/or disabled and individuals who are caring full-time for a disabled household member. (For more information on exemptions see Fact Sheets No. 14 & 15).

SANCTIONS:

Your benefits can be cut (sanctioned) if you do not follow all of the requirements of the new welfare law. Reasons that people have been sanctioned include:

• refusing to participate in the Work Experience Program
• refusing to submit to drug/alcohol screening or treatment
• missing a day at your work assignment or an appointment with an OES caseworker.

If you believe you have a good reason for your failure to participate in WEP or for missing an appointment, request a fair hearing immediately. (See Fact Sheet No. 2).

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