Page 172

TANF POLICY MANUAL

_____________________________________________________________________________________________ 172

4. Compliance with IEP Failure or refusal of a WEI to complete the IEP after case approval will result in a case closure. Use "IS" closure code on CHIP when a case is closed due to the recipient’s failure to sign the Family Plan or to cooperate in the development of the IEP. Use of this closure code for failure to develop the Family Plan applies only to new approvals or re-applications for WEI’s. After the IEP is developed and signed by the WEI, failure or refusal to comply with TANF work program requirements or with activities documented on the IEP will be a basis for sanction. The good cause/conciliation process must be completed prior to imposing a sanction. (See 17.7) CAUTION: State law prohibits certain categories of individuals with Legal Cause from being sanctioned. (See 17.2)

5. Vocational Objective When developing the IEP, a short term vocational objective will be identified. The short term vocational objective will be based on the participant's interests and abilities, and will maximize his/her previous education, training and work history.

It is the responsibility of the CM, in conjunction with the participant, to set a reasonable, attainable short term vocational objective to be listed on the IEP. A participant may also have a long term vocational code listed on the DSS Form 1022. The long-term goal may or may not be attainable within the recipient’s remaining time on the TANF program.

Only one short term vocational objective will be established; services will only be provided which will assist the participant in attaining that objective. The vocational objective can be changed, as circumstances warrant, with supervisory approval documented in the case record. CAUTION: Considering the 24-month time limit, it is critical that the identified goal is attainable and that jobs are available in that field for placement.

6. Plan Updates The IEP may be updated at any time. Any substantive changes (in activities, services, or time frames) must be signed and dated by the participant.

7. Documentation Each family must be given a copy of the IEP. Documentation must be recorded in case notes in SCOSA, as appropriate. 13.5 Job Ready Determination A Determination of job ready or non-job ready will be made during the family evaluation. If an individual is considered job ready, the CM must also determine the level of job readiness; Level 1 or Level 2.

1. Job Ready Levels A. Level 1 job ready participants: 1. Are at least 18 years of age; 2. Have graduated from high school or achieved a GED;