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Montana State Plan for the 13 TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES PROGRAM

Full Plan #25 Effective 01/01/2024 Supersedes #2 01/01/2021.

1. An outline of the activities negotiated to support the client’s goals and may include the results of the Montana Bridge Assessment. The client signs the E/SP agreeing to comply with all activities stated therein. The Pathways Client Advocate also signs the E/SP on behalf of the State, acknowledging its obligation to assist the individual in his or her efforts to become self-supporting. Each E/SP is specifically tailored to address the family's needs and the client’s employment goals and responsibilities. 2. When developing the E/SP with an individual, the Pathways Client Advocate will consider a clients’ disability or their Limited English proficiency (LEP) and make reasonable accommodations when negotiating work activities and to ensure successful program compliance. L. Re-engagement and Sanction process January 1, 2017, Montana implemented a re-engagement process to reconnect the client with their E/SP, goals and steps needed to address self-sufficiency. Client Advocates offer all screenings and review the Montana Family Bridge goals with the client to establish why the client is unable to participate in their negotiated activities and to address any barriers to participation. Clients are given every opportunity in the re- engagement process to participate prior to a sanction being imposed.

January 1, 2008, Montana implemented a progressive sanction policy for failing to comply with an E/SP is as follows: 1. The first non-compliance (sanction) will result in the loss of an amount equal to the sanctioned individual’s portion of cash assistance for one month. This is referred to as a penalty month. 2. The second non-compliance (sanction) will result in total household ineligibility for a period of one month. This is referred to as an ineligibility period.

3. The third non-compliance (sanction) will result in total household ineligibility for a period of three months. This is referred to as an ineligibility period. 4. The fourth or subsequent non-compliance (sanction) will result in total household ineligibility for a period of six months. This is referred to as an ineligibility period.

Exception: Under 407 (e)(2) of the Social Security Act, Montana will not reduce or terminate assistance based on a refusal of an individual to engage in work if the individual is a single custodial parent caring for a child under the age of 6 years of age, and the individual has a demonstrated inability (as determined by the State) to obtain needed childcare.