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For this provision, parents are defined as individuals with natural, adopted, or stepchildren. In addition, individuals are mandatory members of the AG, regardless of relationship, if they provide care and control of minor children, (with the exception of foster children, see 3210.15.05.20). A natural parent who has had their parental rights legally terminated by a juvenile or probate court is no longer considered the natural parent. Their parental rights are permanently terminated.

The stepparent and stepchild relationship continues as long as the individuals live together, even if the natural parent leaves or dies. A stepparent who is divorced from the natural parent is no longer considered a stepparent, and has no parental rights over the stepchild, unless the stepparent has adopted the child. 3210.10.10 SIBLINGS INCLUDED (S)

There is no mandatory relationship requirement for siblings living together. If siblings purchase and prepare separately, they may each have their own assistance group. However, if one sibling is under 18 and under the parental control of another sibling, they must be included in the same AG, even if they purchase and prepare separately.

EXAMPLES:

Sheila (22) and Sally (20) live together. Sheila applies for SNAP. At the interview she states they purchase and prepare separately. Sheila may receive SNAP in an AG of her own.

Mary (25) is caring for her 16-year-old brother, Ted. Her grandparents give Mary money to help buy Ted's food. She is applying for SNAP for Ted only. Because Ted is under 18 and under Mary's parental control, he and Mary must be included together in the same AG.

3210.10.15 SPOUSES INCLUDED (S)

Spouses who live together are mandatory members of an AG. Spouses are granted separate AG status when one spouse establishes a separate residence outside the home.

A spouse is defined as either of two people who are married to each other or who represent as married to relatives, friends, neighbors, or tradespeople. This may include two husbands or wives of the same gender. 3210.10.20 CHILDREN UNDER TWENTY-TWO INCLUDED (S)

Children under the age of 22 are mandatory AG members when they live in the parent's household. Children under 18 who are under parental control must be included in the AG of the person exercising parental control.

Children under age 22 who are natural, adopted, or stepchildren must be included in the same AG as the parent even if they purchase food and prepare meals separately. Beginning with the