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N.J.A.C. 10:90-17.2 This file includes all Regulations adopted and published through the New Jersey Register, Vol. 56 No. 24, December 16, 2024
NJ - New Jersey Administrative Code > TITLE 10. HUMAN SERVICES > CHAPTER 90. WORK FIRST NEW JERSEY PROGRAM > SUBCHAPTER 17. EARLY EMPLOYMENT INITIATIVE (EEI)
§ 10:90-17.2 Determining eligibility for the EEI
(a) When it has been confirmed that EEI slots are available, the county WFNJ agency shall, during the WFNJ application interview, determine whether or not the WFNJ/TANF adult applicant(s) meets the eligibility criteria for mandatory participation in the EEI. More than one adult per family may be determined eligible for mandatory participation in the EEI. Eligibility for mandatory EEI participation shall be determined if an adult WFNJ/TANF applicant meets all of the following criteria: 1. Has a work history that equals or exceeds four months of full time employment in the last 12-month period; 2. Has at least one child; 3. Appears to meet all financial and non-financial WFNJ eligibility requirements, including initial cooperation with child support, and is considered an eligible candidate for receipt of WFNJ cash assistance; 4. Is not in immediate need, in accordance with the immediate need provisions at N.J.A.C. 10:90-1.3; and 5. Does not meet the criteria for a deferral from the work requirements under the WFNJ program (see N.J.A.C. 10:90-4.9). (b) A WFNJ/TANF adult applicant who does not meet the criteria in (a)1 above for mandatory EEI participation, but has a high school diploma or a GED or a work history that equals or exceeds four consecutive weeks of employment within the 52 weeks prior to applying for WFNJ cash assistance and meets all of the other EEI eligibility criteria at (a)2 through 5 above, shall be given the opportunity to voluntarily participate in the EEI. The county WFNJ agency shall inform the applicant who is eligible for participation in the EEI under this voluntary criteria that once the decision is made to voluntarily participate, he or she shall be considered a mandatory EEI participant and shall be obligated to comply with all the provisions set forth in this subchapter. (c) On the same day the WFNJ application is taken, the WFNJ/TANF agency shall determine whether or not any of the adult members of the applicant family meet the EEI eligibility criteria in (a) or (b) above.