3010 Requiring Participation and Cooperation in Developing the CMR

Participating and cooperating with DSS in developing the CMR is a required CMR element for all TANF clients. 1. TANF clients are required to develop a CMR in collaboration with their DSS case workers. Compliance with developing the CMR applies to all TANF cases. 2. DSS case workers will discuss the CMR elements with clients and assist clients in developing and customizing the CMR. A. DSS will give clients the opportunity to mutually develop their CMRs. B. CMRs will include requirements for self-sufficiency, enhanced family planning, and teen responsibility. C. Prior to signing the CMR, DSS will give clients the opportunity to understand the CMR and its requirements. Upon request, DSS will give clients a copy of the proposed CMR to review outside of the DSS office; this should not be considered non-cooperation. D. Clients may object to certain elements of the CMR. Clients are to present any objections at the time of the initial CMR development or CMR revision. E. On a case by case basis, DSS may waive elements of the CMR if good cause exists. If the particular circumstances of a family warrant waiving an element of the CMR, the case worker must justify and properly document the waiver in the client’s case record. F. DSS has the final determination of what elements are required in each client’s CMR. 3. Failure to comply (without good cause) in developing the CMR will result in a sanction to the TANF case. A. The sanction will be an initial $50.00 reduction in the household’s TANF benefit amount. i. If the client is actively negotiating the terms of the CMR or reviewing the CMR outside of the DSS office, DSS will not impose the $50.00 penalty. DSS must allow clients up to 10 days to reach a resolution or to complete contract review. ii. DSS will consider clients who have not returned their CMRs within 10 days as non-compliant and subject to the $50.00 penalty. B. This reduction increases each month by $50.00 until there is compliance or the TANF case is closed. C. The client will receive written notification of compliance requirements. D. The sanction will end when DSS receives proof that the client completed the development of the CMR. 14 DE Reg. 304 (10/01/10) 23 DE Reg. 63 (07/01/19)