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2. Domestic Violence Policy (sections 414.065(4)(b);(c), F.S.):A participant who is unable to comply with work requirements because such compliance would make it probable that he/she would be unable to escape from domestic violence or due to mental or physical impairment related to past incidents of domestic violence, may be excused from work requirements. The LWDB staff or service provider screens, identifies, and works with the participant to develop an ARP that specifies alternative activities that prepare them for self-sufficiency while providing for the safety of the participant and their dependents. Failure to comply with the ARP without good cause results in the same penalty process as failure to comply with work activities.

In accordance with the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2022 and TANF-ACF-PI-2022- 02, the state has certified that it has established and is enforcing standards and procedures to ensure that applicants and potential TANF applicants are notified of assistance made available to victims of sexual harassment and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Case managers and other agency personnel responsible for administering the TANF program are required to be trained in (a) the nature and dynamics of sexual harassment and domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking; (b) the state’s standards and procedures relating to the prevention of, and assistance for, individuals who are victims of sexual harassment or survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking; and (c) methods ascertaining and ensuring the confidentiality of personal information and documentation related to applicants for assistance and their children who have provided notice about their experiences of sexual harassment, domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking.

3.7 GOOD CAUSE (SECTION 414.065(1), F.S.)

Florida defines “good cause for failure to comply with work or alternative requirement activities” as the temporary inability to participate due to circumstances beyond the participant’s control. The LWDB staff or service provider notifies the participant of the failure to comply, provides counseling regarding the consequences of non-compliance, determines if the participant had good cause for not meeting program requirements, and determines if the participant needs additional services or an alternative activity to assist in compliance. If the participant fails to respond to the notification or counseling, then LWDB staff or service provider requests DCF apply a penalty. Good cause reasons include, but are not limited, to the following: 1. A family emergency due to the inability to find suitable child-care for a sick child under age 12. 2. Hospitalization, medical emergency, or death of an immediate family member. 3. Natural disaster. 4. Lack of transportation or child-care or other support service. 5. Court appearance. 6. Temporarily caring for a disabled family member when the participant provided verification of the need for care and alternative care is not available. 7. Domestic violence.