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• Participation in an adult secondary education program through a public school district or technical college, including vocational education and training programs, as a full or part-time student. Full or part-time student is defined as one who participates in at least 12 hours per semester (or equivalent); or for part-time students, a total of at least 12 hours over the course of two completed semesters during a 12-month period that shows a participant is achieving the state unit’s academic standards; • Participation in a degree- or certificate- seeking program in an accredited institution of higher education, as defined by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education as a full or part- time student. Full or part-time student is defined as one who participates in at least 12 hours per semester (or equivalent); or for part-time students, a total of at least 12 hours over the course of two completed semesters during a 12-month period that shows a participant is achieving the state unit’s academic standards; • Compliance with unemployment insurance (UI) work-search requirements (first 16 weeks of UI benefits); • For dual Medicaid-Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)/ Temporary Assistance for Needy Families members, demonstrated compliance with SNAP community engagement standards; • Participation in/compliance with medically necessary substance use disorder treatments; • For individuals who are a member of the Catawba Nation, additional qualifying activities may include participation in tribal economic development programs including on-the-job training, the 8(a) Status program, or volunteer opportunities through the Catawba Nation. Individuals who do not meet the work or community engagement requirements will be disenrolled from the Palmetto Pathways to Independence waiver program. The state welcomes comments on the Palmetto Pathways to Independence waiver program from tribal leaders and communities. Please submit comments to SCDHHS on the proposed demonstration before the end of the comment period on May 31, 2025. If you would like to arrange an in-person meeting or discussion regarding the waiver application, please reach out to Margaret Alewine, Chief of Policy at (803) 898-0047 or margaret.alewine@scdhhs.gov. Sincerely, Eunice Medina Director 36