Page 16
DSS and partners will work jointly to create, modify, and implement new policy and procedures for staff. DSS shares information with DLR or other partners via Microsoft Teams, in-person meetings, email, and phone. Describe how the State agency, intermediaries, and E&T providers share participant data and information. Include the names of any MIS systems (or other modes of communication) used. Participant data is shared through the State’s eligibility system (ACCESS) and SDWorks for DLR. With partnerships outside of DSS and DLR, communication is through e-mail and phone calls. If the State uses a MIS system, describe the E&T related data that is tracked and stored in those systems (e.g. referrals, noncompliance with program requirements, provider determination, etc.), and whether the system(s) interact with each other. The MIS system ACCESS tracks referrals to E&T partners, activity information, noncompliance, sanctions, and provider determinations. DLR has direct access to ACCESS information pertinent to their work. Catholic Social Services would manually request any needed information by secure email monthly. Describe the State agency’s process for monitoring E&T providers’ program and fiscal operations. Include plans for direct monitoring such as visits, as well as indirect monitoring such as reviewing program data, financial invoices, etc. DSS and DLR management meet as needed to evaluate goals, staffing patterns, and funding for possible adjustments. DSS and DLR Program Specialists meet weekly to discuss processes and policies and determine training needs. Major program goals are re-evaluated and re-established no later than April 30th of each year. In addition, DSS and DLR conduct annual on-site visits to DLR local offices and jointly issue corrective action plans to DLR local office managers, as needed. If a corrective action plan is issued, follow-up visits will be made to monitor implementation with a 30 day response required and open corrective action plan until resolved. When policy changes are put in place, the State Agency will assist with training and E&T partner handbook updates for staff. DSS and DLR provide technical assistance and training to local offices on an on- going basis. DLR and DSS completes case file reviews quarterly to ensure policies and procedures are being followed. Data validation is also completed during these reviews. These reviews are completed quarterly and provide an in-depth review of policy, process, and customer service. After reviews are complete. DSS completes a review as well to ensure that DLR is operating E&T programs in compliance with Federal Regulation and the policies and procedures that are in place. In onboarding a third party provider the State will provide technical support on-site and by phone. Once the third party partner is established, will meet no less than monthly. The third party partner and the State will review files quarterly. Data validation is also completed during these reviews. These reviews are completed quarterly and provide an in-depth review of policy, process, and customer service. After reviews are complete DSS will provide a summary as well to ensure that the third party partner is operating E&T programs in compliance with Federal Regulation and the policies and procedures that are in place. DSS maintains a contract with each partner which outlines the budget and responsibilities, and the SNAP Program Administrator and SNAP E&T Program Specialist reviews all invoices received by DSS. 1/29/26, 9:37 AM State Plan SD FY26 - Original Submission https://dam-fns.usda.gov/sites/default/files/microsite/snapet-sdfy26stateplan//index.html 16/84