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As part of completion of the AMR, the CAO determines whether the individual is exempt from or has good cause for not participating in work or work activities. For individuals required to participate in work and work activities, the AMR includes a requirement to conduct an initial job search or participate in a work activity. The initial activity assesses the skills, work experience and employability of each adult recipient. In addition to the initial job search, the AMR is also used to outline other work participation activities and obligations for nonexempt clients. Penalties for noncompliance, without good cause, with work requirements set forth on the AMR, were applied beginning March 3, 1997. Pursuant to Act 35, the AMR will include the following obligations, when appropriate to the individual or family situation:  Receive prenatal care as recommended by the doctor or clinic and/or ensure that children are immunized, receive periodic health screening and appropriate medical treatment.

 Take steps, if needed, which will improve a child’s school attendance and improve their chances for earning a high school diploma.

 Submit to a substance abuse assessment by the local county drug and alcohol authority if the CAO determines that an individual may have a substance-abuse problem that presents a barrier to employment. If the assessment indicates that a drug or alcohol problem exists, the individual will be required to participate in and complete an approved treatment program as indicated by the local drug and alcohol authority. If an individual fails to enter or complete a program, they can comply by providing proof of substance-free status by submitting to periodic drug testing.

 Make appropriate payments to service providers from allowances provided to enable the individual to fulfill their commitment to engage in work or a work activity.

 Comply with work and work activity requirements.

 Meet other obligations specified on the AMR related to self-sufficiency and parenting responsibilities. These obligations are basic personal and parental responsibilities which are important to the physical and mental well-being of the family. If not addressed, they not only represent potential barriers to employment, but could increase the likelihood that public assistance dependency will be passed from one generation to the next. The Department established penalties and good cause criteria for noncompliance before implementing sanctions associated with these obligations.