Page 299

Volume III | Chapter 3

3906 MISSISSIPPI

the electronic case record to document that TWP rules and regulations were explained. Drug Treatment (JD) Individuals who are undergoing substance abuse treatment recommended by a physician or Mental Health Office may be exempt from work requirements during the active treatment period only. This is intended to cover temporary periods spent in residential treatment centers or other full-time rehabilitation programs, and not ongoing support group participation, such as AA meetings. The plan of treatment must be documented in the case record and an alert set for the anticipated treatment end date. Months used while claiming this exemption will count in the 60- month time limit but will not count in the 24-month time limit. Additional and more detailed information about the specific requirements and explanations for this exemption are located under Drug Treatment, later in this section. Waiver of Exemption Status An adult TANF recipient included in the assistance unit (coded IN) that is eligible for a TANF work exemption under the JB, JC, JF, JL or JD exemption reason may choose to voluntarily waive his/her exemption status and be referred to the TWP. When a waiver is requested, the worker will thoroughly explain work program requirements, e.g., work activities, participation, supportive services, adverse action (full family sanction and timed penalties), earned income disregards, and transitional supportive services. The worker will also inform the recipient that once a work exemption is waived, the exemption status cannot be resumed automatically. Ongoing policy will be applied if the individual subsequently reports an inability to work or comply with work program requirements. If, after all explanations have been provided, the exempt individual chooses to voluntarily waive his/her exemption, the worker will have the recipient complete and sign form MDHS-EA-321, TANF Work Exemption Waiver. Once the MDHS-EA-321 is fully executed, the worker will change the individual's TWP (JOBS) Program Status Code from "J*" to NE with the exception of JJ and JV. The JJ and JV codes will be changed to EV. A signed copy of the MDHSEA- 321 will be scanned to the individual's electronic case record. Once the individual is referred to the TWP, ongoing TWP policy and procedures will apply to the case. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE An individual with a history of having been a victim of domestic violence which has been reported as required by State law and substantiated by police reports or court records, and is at risk of further domestic violence may claim this work exemption. "Domestic violence" is defined by law