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Montana State Plan for the 15 TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES PROGRAM

Full Plan #25 Effective 01/01/2024 Supersedes #2 01/01/2021. Allowable TANF Cash work activities are based on federal activities allowed at 45 CFR 261.30 with the limitations and special provisions listed in 45 CFR 261.31 through 45 CFR 261.35 and on the TANF Reauthorization Regulations contained in the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005. Montana’s allowable work activities are:

1. Employment (Unsubsidized or Subsidized) – Unsubsidized employment activity means full or part-time employment or self-employment in the public or private sector that is not subsidized by TANF or any other public program. Subsidized employment is defined as employment for which the employer receives a subsidy from TANF or other public funds to offset some or all the wages and costs of employment of a recipient. 2. Work Experience (WEX) - The work experience activity means placement in a formal job site training experience that provides an individual with an opportunity to acquire the general skills, training, knowledge, and work habits necessary to obtain employment. All work experience placements have a detailed training plan. The main purpose of work experience is to improve the employability of those who cannot find unsubsidized employment. 3. Job Search and Job Readiness Assistance – The Job Search/Job Readiness activity means the act of seeking or obtaining employment, preparation to seek or obtain employment, including life skills training, and substance abuse treatment, mental health treatment or rehabilitation activities. Such treatment or therapy must be determined to be necessary and certified by a qualified medical or mental health professional. 4. Community Service – The Community Service activity includes structured programs and embedded activities in which the client performs work for the direct benefit of the community under the auspices of public or nonprofit organizations.

5. Vocational Educational Training – The Vocational Educational Training activity means organized educational programs, up to a Baccalaureate or advanced degree, that are directly related to the preparation of individuals for employment in current or emerging occupations requiring training. Effective 8/1/2011 Montana implemented the revised Parents As Scholars (PAS) program as a result of Senate Bill 385 (2011 legislature). PAS allows approval of Vocational Educational Training or continuation of studies to obtain a High School Equivalency Certificate (HI SET) as an allowable work activity above and beyond the restrictions noted in federal regulation (12 months of Vocational Educational Training and primary/secondary limitations for HI SET studies.) The PAS program is limited to 25 eligible TANF clients. Montana recognizes these individuals are not considered to be meeting the work participation rate due to the federal restrictions on these activities and are reported as such.