PM 01-01-01: Nondiscrimination

WAG 01-01-01

Consistent with the Public Aid Code, DHS does not discriminate against a person because of:

Race

Color

Religious faith

Political beliefs

Sex

Protected age group

Disability

National Origin

Give information on our nondiscrimination policy to:

clients or anyone who applies for benefits; or

any group or persons wanting to do business with DHS; or

anyone who asks about our programs or policies.

When a person applies, or when requested, explain the nondiscrimination policy to them. A person or family meeting our program rules has the right to receive benefits from us.

Staff should be careful not to intimidate or discourage anyone - citizen or noncitizen - from applying for benefits for themselves or their family members.

Nondiscrimination rules that apply to vendors receiving direct payment from the Department are contained on all direct billing payment forms. The vendor implies compliance with the Department's nondiscrimination rules when they sign the direct billing form.

Any person who believes they have been discriminated against by DHS, its employees, or any group, vendor, or person acting on behalf of DHS, may file a complaint. The complaint may be filed by a client, an applicant, a client/applicant representative, or a DHS employee. It must be filed within 180 days of the alleged discriminatory act.

A written complaint may be sent to:

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Office, Department of Human Services; or

Illinois Department of Civil Rights; or

Family Community Resource Center Administrator (LOA) of the office serving that area.

In addition, SNAP clients can file a complaint with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The 180-day time period for filing may be extended by USDA.