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Page | 4 Financial and SNAP Assistance. By signing the application form (also used the annual recertification form), the applicants and recipients agree to abide by the restriction. The instruction pamphlet on the use of the EBT card has also been revised to include the restriction.

See Attachments A-2, form DHS 1240, Application for Financial and SNAP Assistance, and A-3, pamphlet, How to Use Your Hawaii EBT Card.

6.0 CLIENT PROTECTIONS 6.1 Confidentiality

The rules regarding the use and disclosure of information about individuals and families receiving assistance are consistent with the rules that guided the program under Title IV-A of the Social Security Act of 1935 prior to the enactment of the PRWORA. The rules protect the rights of individuals and permit the release of information to programs operating in connection with the TANF program, i.e., federal funded or federal assisted programs providing assistance based on need, or for appropriate audit purposes, or to appropriate local, state, and federal law enforcement officials. Pertinent administrative rules governing confidentiality can be found in Chapter 17-601, HAR.

6.2 Administrative Hearing and Appeals Process

Hawaii provides a timely and adequate notice to the recipient that is mailed at least ten (10) days prior to an adverse action (i.e., reduction or termination of benefits) and provides opportunities for clients who have been adversely affected to be heard in a state administered appeals process. There is a set time limit for a client to request an administrative hearing; and for the Department to conduct the hearing and render an administrative decision. Administrative hearings are presided over by impartial hearing officers. Clients are allowed to present their appeals independently; be represented by legal counsel or authorized representative; bring witnesses to the hearing; ask questions and cross-examine during the hearing; and present additional evidence to support their appeal. If dissatisfied with the decision rendered by the hearing officer, the client may file a notice of appeal with the circuit court. Administrative rules governing administrative hearings can be found in Chapter 17-602.1, HAR.

6.3 Limited English Proficiency

Hawaii has policies and procedures for providing interpreter and translation services. We provide a bilingual interpreter at no charge and have entered into a Resolution Agreement with the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights, related to this effective August 18, 2008.