COMMENT DUE DATE:  

February 15, 2018

DATE: 

January 16, 2018

Laura Brown Adult and Family Services 405-521-4396

Dena Thayer, Programs Administrator 405-521-4326

RE:  

APA WF 18-10

It is very important that you provide your comments regarding the DRAFT COPY of policy by the comment due date. Comments are directed to *STO.LegalServices.Policy@okdhs.org. 

The proposed policy is  Permanent .  This proposal is subject to Administrative Procedures Act

It is important that you provide your comments regarding the draft copy of policy by the comment due date.Comments are directed to STO.LegalServices.Policy@okdhs.org.The proposed policy is permanent.

A public hearing is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on February 21, 2018, at DHS, Sequoyah Memorial Office Building, 2400 N. Lincoln Boulevard, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105, Room C-48.Anyone who wants to speak must sign in at the door by 10:05 a.m.

SUBJECT:CHAPTER 10. TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES (TANF)

Subchapter 2. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Work Program

340:10-2-1 [AMENDED]

340:10-2-4 [AMENDED]

340:10-2-6.1 through 340:10:10-2-7 [AMENDED]

Subchapter 3. Conditions of Eligibility – Need [AMENDED]

Part 3. Income

340:10-3-31.1 [AMENDED]

(Reference WF 17-17 and 18-01)

SUMMARY:The proposed amendments to Chapter 10, Subchapter 2 amend the rules to:(1) update education or training work activities to require clients to attend through a TANF contracted provider, when available at the facility; define what is considered satisfactory progress; how to verify progress; and require approval of a probationary period if satisfactory progress is not met; (2) remove the Supported Transitional Employment Program (STEP) as a subsidized employment option; (3) update child care rules upon TANF cash assistance closure to align with emergency child care rule changes; (4) add legal and rule citations. (5) add clarifying language for enhanced understanding; and (6) update terminology.

The proposed revisions to Chapter 10, Subchapter 3 amend the rules to add:(1) information regarding loss of the earned income disregard period upon job loss when the client does not obtain a new job within 10-calendar days; (2) the worker's responsibility to update the client's employability plan to include the client's place of employment and job hours; (3) information regarding the client's eligibility for child care during the earned income disregard (EID) period, upon job loss, and upon TANF closure to align with emergency child care rule changes; (4) information regarding the client's eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits and SoonerCare (Medicaid) upon TANF closure; and (5) rule citations.

PERMANENT APPROVAL:Permanent rulemaking is requested.

LEGAL AUTHORITY:Director of Human Services; Section 162 and 230.52 of Title 56 of the Oklahoma Statues; Sections 261.2, 262.10, 261.30 and 261.33 of Part 261 of Title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations (45 C.F.R. §§ 261.2, 262.10, 261.30 and 261.33); Section 5(N) of the CCDBG of 2014, P.L. 113-186; and 45 C.F.R. § 98.21.

Rule Impact Statement

To:Programs Administrator

Legal Services - Policy

From:Patrick Klein,Director

Adult and Family Services

Date:December 18, 2017

Re:Chapter 10. TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES (TANF)

Subchapter 2. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Work Program

340:10-2-1 [AMENDED]

340:10-2-4 [AMENDED]

340:10-2-6.1 through 340:10-2-7 [AMENDED]

Subchapter 3. Conditions Of Eligibility – Need [AMENDED]

Part 3. Income

340:10-3-31.1 [AMENDED]

(Reference WF 18-01 and WF 17-17)

Contact:Laura Brown (405) 521-4396

A.Brief description of the purpose of the proposed rule:

Purpose.

The proposed amendments to Chapter 10, Subchapter 2 amend the rules to:(1) update education or training work activities to require clients to attend through a TANF contracted provider, when available at the facility; define what is considered satisfactory progress; how to verify progress; and require approval of a probationary period if satisfactory progress is not met; (2) remove the Supported Transitional Employment Program (STEP) as a subsidized employment option; (3) update child care rules upon TANF cash assistance closure to align with emergency child care rule changes; (4) add legal and rule citations. (5) add clarifying language for enhanced understanding; and (6) update terminology.

The proposed revisions to Chapter 10, Subchapter 3 amend the rules to add:(1) information regarding loss of the earned income disregard period upon job loss when the client does not obtain a new job within 10-calendar days; (2) the worker's responsibility to update the client's employability plan to include the client's place of employment and job hours; (3) information regarding the client's eligibility for child care during the earned income disregard (EID) period, upon job loss, and upon TANF closure to align with emergency child care rule changes; (4) information regarding the client's eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits and SoonerCare (Medicaid) upon TANF closure; and (5) rule citations.

Strategic Plan Impact.

The proposed amendments achieve Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) goals by continuously improving systems and processes and improving communication with DHS clients and staff.

Substantive changes.

Subchapter 2. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Work Program

OAC 340:10-2-1, 340:10-2-6, and 340:10-2-7 are amended to:(1) update education or training work activities to:(a) require clients to attend through a TANF contracted provider, when available, at the facility and participate in a TANF Work activity the minimum number of hours or as mandated by the TANF contracted provider; (b) define what is considered satisfactory progress and how progress may be verified; (c) require approval of a probationary period if satisfactory progress is not met; and (d) require placement in another TANF Work activity when a probationary period is not approved; (2) add clarifying language for enhanced understanding; and (3) update terminology.

OAC 340:10-2-4 is amended to:(1) remove the Supported Transitional Employment Program (STEP) as a subsidized employment option; (2) update child care rules upon TANF cash assistance closure to align with emergency child care rule changes; and (3) add legal and rule citations.

Subchapter 3. Conditions of Eligibility - Need

Part 3. Income

OAC 340:10-3-31.1 is amended to add:(1) information regarding loss of the earned income disregard period upon job loss when the client does not obtain a new job within 10-calendar days; (2) the worker's responsibility to update the client's employability plan to include the client's place of employment and job hours; (3) information regarding the client's eligibility for child care during the EID period, upon job loss, and upon TANF closure to align with emergency child care rule changes; (4) information regarding the client's eligibility for SNAP food benefits and SoonerCare (Medicaid) upon TANF closure; and (5) rule citations.

Reasons.

The proposed revisions regarding education or training at an institution of higher education are changed to standardize attendance hours, how satisfactory progress is measured and verified, and how unsatisfactory progress is addressed statewide when the facility has a TANF contracted provider onsite.

The proposed rule to remove STEP as a subsidized employment option is made because the program is no longer in use.

The proposed rule to remove the earned income disregard period when a client loses his or her job and does not obtain a new one within 10-calendar days is made as the purpose of the EID period is to maintain steady employment.

The proposed rule to update and add child care information is made to align with Child Care Subsidy emergency rules.Child Care Subsidy emergency rules are made to comply with provisions of the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act (CCDBG) of 2014, Public Law (P.L.) 113-186.

Repercussions.

If the proposed revisions are not implemented, participation requirements for education and training work activities at an institution of higher education may not be standardized or reflect current processes for clients and staff.This may lead to or continue TANF Work participation rate errors.If the proposed revisions regarding child care are not made, clients and TANF staff may incorrectly apply child care rules.

Legal authority.

Director of Human Services; Section 162 and 230.52 of Title 56 of the Oklahoma Statues; Sections 261.2, 262.10, 261.30, and 261.33 of Part 261 of Title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations (45 C.F.R. §§ 261.2, 262.10, and 261.30); Section 5(N) of the CCDBG of 2014, P.L. 113-186; and 45 C.F.R. § 98.21.

Permanent rulemaking approval is requested.OAC 340:10-2-4 and 340:10-3-31.1 submitted as emergency rules on August 2, 2017 and approved by the Governor on August 28, 2017. No additional revisions were made to these two Sections during permanent rulemaking.

B.A description of the classes of persons who most likely will be affected by the proposed rule, including classes that will bear the costs of the proposed rule, and any information on cost impacts received by the Agency from any private or public entities:The classes of persons most likely to be affected by the proposed amendments are households applying for or receiving TANF cash assistance benefits and DHS staff.The affected classes of persons will bear no costs associated with implementation of the rules.

C.A description of the classes of persons who will benefit from the proposed rule:The classes of persons who will benefit are households applying for or receiving TANF and DHS staff.The affected classes of persons will bear no costs associated with implementation of the rules.

D.A description of the probable economic impact of the proposed rule upon the affected classes of persons or political subdivisions, including a listing of all fee changes and, whenever possible, a separate justification for each fee change:The proposed amendments do not have an economic impact on the affected entities.There are no fee changes associated with the proposed amendments.

E.The probable costs and benefits to the Agency and to any other agency of the implementation and enforcement of the proposed rule, the source of revenue to be used for implementation and enforcement of the proposed rule and any anticipated effect on state revenues, including a projected net loss or gain in such revenues if it can be projected by the Agency:The probable cost to DHS includes the cost of printing and distributing the rules estimated to be less than $20. The proposed amendments will result in enhanced delivery of services by standardizing DHS processes related to education and training and may decrease DHS TANF Work participation rate errors.

F.A determination whether implementation of the proposed rule will have an impact on any political subdivisions or require their cooperation in implementing or enforcing the rule:The proposed amendments do not have an economic impact on any political subdivision, nor will the cooperation of any political subdivisions be required in implementation or enforcement of the amendments.

G.A determination whether implementation of the proposed rule will have an adverse economic effect on small business as provided by the Oklahoma Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Act:There are no anticipated adverse effects on small business as provided by the Oklahoma Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Act.

H.An explanation of the measures the Agency has taken to minimize compliance costs and a determination whether there are less costly or nonregulatory methods or less intrusive methods for achieving the purpose of the proposed rule:There are no less costly or non-regulatory methods or less intrusive methods for achieving the purpose of the proposed amendments.

I.A determination of the effect of the proposed rule on the public health, safety, and environment and, if the proposed rule is designed to reduce significant risks to the public health, safety, and environment, an explanation of the nature of the risk and to what extent the proposed rule will reduce the risk:The proposed amendments are not designed to reduce significant risks to the public health safety and environment.The proposed Child Care Subsidy rule to not consider a copayment until the child care renewal is due will have a positive impact on children's health and safety as it give clients leaving TANF time to adjust to other increased expenses before being responsible for child care costs.

J.A determination of any detrimental effect on the public health, safety, and environment if the proposed rule is not implemented:If the proposed rule amendments are not implemented, no detrimental effects on the public health, safety, and environment are anticipated.

K.The date the rule impact statement was prepared and, if modified, the date modified:Prepared on April 19, 2017; modified December 18, 2017.

SUBCHAPTER 2. TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES (TANF) WORK PROGRAM

340:10-2-1. Work requirements

Revised 8-1-109-15-18

All parents or needy caretakers who apply for or receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash assistance from Oklahoma are required to be engaged in a work activity.The parent(s) or needy caretaker must participate in work activities for at least the minimum number of hours weekly that are necessary to move that person into employment and self-sufficiency, per (2) of this Section.¢ 1

(1) Work-eligible person.A work-eligible person is defined as an adult or minor head-of-household included in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) assistance unit.Excluded from this definition is a parent providing care for a disabled family member living in the home, who does not attend school on a full-time basis, provided the need for such care is supported by medical documentation.¢ 2

(2) Minimum hours of workTANF Work activities.

(A) All TANF applicants and recipientsparents or needy caretakers who meet the definition of a work-eligible person are required to participate in the minimum hours of work activities.¢ 3

(i) A work-eligible person must participate in work activities an average of 30 hours per week, with the exception ofunless the person is a single custodial parent with a child under age six6 years of age, who must participate in work activities an average of 20 hours per week.¢ 4

(ii) In a two-parent family, when deprivation is based on incapacity, the non-incapacitated adult must participate in work activities an average of 30 hours per week, unless he or she is:

(I) required in the home to provide care for the incapacitated work-eligible parent;¢ 5 or

(II) he or she is a custodial parent with a child under age six6 years of age.In this instance the non-incapacitated adult must participate in work activities an average of 20 hours per week.

(iii) In a two-parent family, when deprivation is based on unemployment, one adult must participate in work activities an average of 35 hours per week and the other adult must participate an average of 30 hours per week.IfWhen one parent is an ineligible alien, the other parent must participate in work activities an average of 35 hours per week.IfWhen both parents are ineligible aliens, the family does not qualify as a two-parent family as the work requirement cannot be met.

(iv) To determine the average weekly countable work hours for a work-eligible person who is self-employed, the Adult and Family Services (AFS) worker:

(I) determines the person's monthly countable earned self-employment income per Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 340:10-3-32;

(II) divides that figurethe income by the federal minimum wage; and

(III) divides that figure by 4.3 whichthat equals weekly countable work hours.

(B) Hours missed due to holidays and a maximum of an additional 80 hours of excused absences count as hours of participation for any unpaid scheduled work activity per criteria in (i) through (iii) of this subparagraph.

(i) Federal law establishes public holidays.Stateand the Governor orders state holidays are ordered observed by the Governor.¢ 6If When the facility where the participant is scheduled to attendattends is open on a designated holiday, thisthe day is not considered a holiday for participation purposes.

(ii) Excused absences are reasonable, short-term hours missed from a scheduled work activity.There areThe participant may be granted a maximum of 80 hours of excused absences in any 12-month period.Nowith no more than 16 hours of excused absences in aper month are counted as hours of TANF Work participation hours.¢ 7All excused absences must be approved by the AFS worker.¢ 8An excused absence is defined as:

(I) unavailability of appropriate child care;

(II) illness or injury of the participant or a family member who lives in the household.The family member must meet the definition of a relative per OAC 340:10-9-1;

(III) scheduled doctor appointments for the participant or a family member who lives in the household;

(IV) the participant's court-required appearance by the participant;

(V) the participant's required attendance at parent and teacher conferences by the participant;

(VI) the temporary unavailability of planned transportation when needed or inability to arrange for transportation;

(VII) an inclement weather occurrence of inclement weather that prevented the participant, and other persons similarly situated, from traveling to, or participating in, the prescribed activity;

(VIII) crisis intervention needed due to domestic violence issues;

(IX) a family crisis; or¢ 9

(X) the participant's required attendance of the participant for a specific appointment by another governmental entity.

(iii) To count an excused absence or holiday as participation hours of participation, the personparticipant must have been scheduled to participate in an allowable work activity for the period of the absence.Participation allowances are paid for approved holidays and approved excused absences for a maximum of 16 hours per month.

(3) TANFWork activities.TANF Work activities are defined as core and non-core and must be scheduled, structured, and supervised.TANF Work participants are placed in core work activities when appropriate.

(A) Core work activities are:

(i) full- or part-time unsubsidized employment that is full-time or part-time employment in the public or private sector that is not subsidized by TANF or any other public program;

(ii) subsidized private sector employment that is employment in the private sector for which the employer receives a subsidy from TANF or other public funds to offset some or all of the wages and costs of employing a recipient;

(iii) subsidized public sector employment that is employment in the public sector for which the employer receives a subsidy from TANF or other public funds to offset some or all of the wages and costs of employing a recipient;

(iv) Work Experience Program (WEP) that is a work activityplacement that provides a personparticipant with an opportunity to acquire general skills, training, knowledge, and work habits necessary to obtain employment;

(v) paid on-the-job training that is training in the public or private sector that a paid employeeparticipant receives while he or she is engaged in productive work and that provides knowledge and skills essential to the full and adequate performance of the job;

(vi) job search that is the act of seeking or obtaining employment and job readiness activities.that preparesJob readiness activities prepare the personparticipant to seek orand obtain employment, and includes life skills training, substance abuse treatment, mental health treatment, or rehabilitation activities for those who are otherwise employable;¢ 10

(vii) vocational training, not to exceed 12 months, that areis organized educational programs directly related to the preparation of personspreparing participants for employment in current or emerging occupations requiring training.Countable vocational training may include up to 12 months toward a two year vocational training certificate, an associate's degree, a bachelor's degree, or an advanced degree program that qualifies a personparticipant to obtain immediate employment in a specific field and;.

(I) When the institution of higher education has a TANF-funded contract, the participant must attend through the contracted provider.

(II) The participant is required to participate in a TANF Work activity the minimum number of hours per (2) of this Section or as mandated by the TANF-contracted provider.¢ 11

(III) The participant must maintain satisfactory academic progress with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 and verify progress at mid-term, when possible, and at the end of the semester.Progress may be verified by a grade report, transcript, or a statement from the contracted provider or other school official.¢ 12

(IV) When satisfactory progress is not met, the AFS worker submits Form 08TW008E, Higher Education Probationary Approval Request, to AFS TANF program field representative staff to request a probationary approval period.When the probationary approval period is not approved, the participant is placed in another TANF Work activity; and

(viii) Community Partnership (CP) is a structured work activity in which TANF recipientsparticipants perform work for the direct benefit of the community whichthat improves the employability of recipients not otherwise able to obtain employment.

(B) Non-core work activities are:

(i) job skills training directly related to employment that is training or educationfor job skills required by an employer to providethat provides a personparticipant with the ability to obtain employment or to advance or adapt to the changing demands of the workplace.Time spent in vocational training in excess of 12 months may be counted as job skills training, ifwhen the participant is also participatingparticipates in a different approved core activity for a minimum of 20 hours per week;

(ii) education directly related to employment, in the case ofwhen a recipientwhoparticipant has not received a high school equivalency, that is education related to a specific occupation, job, or job offer; and

(iii) satisfactory school attendance at a secondary school or in a course of study leading to a General Educational Development (GED)high school equivalency certificate, in the case ofwhen a recipient whoparticipant has not completed secondary school or received such a certificate, that is regular attendance with the requirements of the secondary school, or in a course of study leading to a GED certificate.

(4) Limitations and special rules.

(A) A single custodial parent who has not attainedyounger than 20 years of age,andwho has not completed high school is determined to be in a work activity for the month ifwhen the recipientparticipant maintains satisfactory attendance at a secondary school or equivalent during the month.¢ 1113

(B) A single custodial parent or the non-incapacitated adult in a family where deprivation is based on incapacity who has a child under the age of four4 months is not required to participate in a work activity.The recipient canparticipant may use this special rule for a lifetime limit not to exceed 12 months.

INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF 340:10-2-1

Revised 7-1-129-15-18

1.(a) Application.During the application process, the worker and applicantcomplete Form 08TW002E, TANF Work/Personal Responsibility Agreement, and the worker reviews with the applicant his or herthe responsibilities listed on Form 08TW002E, TANF Work/Personal Responsibility Agreement, which is initiated during the application processthe form with the applicant before he or she signs the agreement.

(b) Employability plan. The activities related to the parent(s)' or needy caretaker's employability plan are:

(1) determiningdetermine the most appropriate work activity for the parent(s) or needy caretaker;

(2) determining the parent(s)' or needy caretaker's and participation hours of participation in a work activity;

(3)(2) informinginform the parent(s) or needy caretaker of the:

(A) work requirements, including providingand provide Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS)(DHS) Publication No. 93-10, "TANF Work - The Future is Yours"; and

(B) availability of supportive social services, such as medical assistance, child care, housing, and transportation;

(4)(3) assistingassist the parent(s) or needy caretaker to complete Form 08TW002E and update Section 7, Participant Agreement/Employability Plan, as often as indicated by the person's needs;

(5)(4) providingprovide:

(A) assistance in arranging for child care during participation in activities; and

(B) consultation to ensure orderly program operations, which requires meeting with DHS staff, work participants, community groups, and employers;

(6)(5) initiatinginitiate the sanction process as outlined inper Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 340:10-2-2 ifwhen the parent(s) or needy caretaker fails to meet the work requirements;

(7)(6) establishingestablish or maintainingmaintain:

(A) community and participant contacts that support Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Work activities;

(B) a cooperative working relationship with local agencies or groups that provide job readiness and employment opportunities; and

(8)(C) maintaining records of current resource materials that provide information and assistance to staff and parent(s) or needy caretaker;

(9) establishing and maintaining a cooperative working relationship with local agencies or groups that provide job readiness and employment opportunities;

(10)(7) developingdevelop new resources or identifyingidentify existing resources to create new work sites;

(11) providing consultation and assistance to ensure orderly program operations, which requires meeting with OKDHS staff, work participants, community groups, and employers;

(12)(8) conductingconduct small group workshops on an as-needed basis to provide information and instruction regarding the various available work activities available.Orientation is not an appropriate activity when the clientparticipant completed orientation within the last 12 months; and

(13)(9) updatingupdate the TANF Work tab and Auth. ET&E tab onin Family Assistance/Client Services (FACS), showingto show the participation status of each parent or needy caretaker and usinguse Case Notes to document the participation activities and other needs of the family members.

(c) Termination of TANF cash assistance closure.At the timeWhen TANF cash assistance is terminatedcloses, the worker explores with the family any continued need for social services with the family.When termination ofTANF cash assistance closure is due to employment or increased earnings, the worker explains availability of transitional child care, medical services, and the earned income tax credit.

2.WorkerThe worker updates FACS, TANF Work tab to CD, caring for a disabled person and codes a good cause authorization on FACS, Auth. ET&E tab.

3.Refer to OAC 340:10-2-2 for the determination of good cause for not participating information when the participant does not satisfactorily participate in work activities.

4.(a) Refer to OAC 340:10-2-1paragraph (4) of OAC 340:10-2-1 for the limitations for a single custodial parent under the age ofyounger than 20 years of age, who has not completeddid not complete high school.

(b) A participant enrolled in a TANF-funded program at an institution of higher education per OAC 340:10-2-6.1 or vocational training per OAC 340:10-2-7 must comply with the hours set for the program even when the hours exceed 20 hours per week.

5.(a) The incapacitated, work-eligible parent is not required to participate in TANF Work activities.FACS, TANF Work tab,The worker codes the ET&E status must be updated toin the FACS TANF Work tab with DI, disabled person.The worker codesand inputs a good cause authorization on in the FACS, Auth. ET&E tab.

(b) When the client provides medical documentation that substantiates the work-eligible spouse of the incapacitated parent is required in the home to provide care, the worker updates FACS, TANF Work tab, ET&E Status to CD, caring for a disabled person.The worker codesand inputs a good cause authorization onin the FACS, Auth. ET&E tab.

6.(a) Federal holidays are set by law and state holidays are declared by the Governor.If When thea holiday falls on a Saturday, usually Friday is observed as the holiday; ifand when it falls on a Sunday, usually Monday is observed as the holiday.The allowed holidays are:

(1) New Years Day;

(2) Independence Day;

(3) two business days for Christmas;

(4) Martin Luther King, Jr. Day;

(5) President'sPresidents' Day;

(6) Memorial Day;

(7) Labor Day; and

(8) Thanksgiving Day and the following day after.

(b) A facility closure, such as spring break, fall break, and Christmas break, is not considered a holiday for participation purposes.Summer break for a secondary school is not considered a holiday for minor parents attending high school.

7.(a) The worker uses the ETPANEW transaction for the appropriate ET&E authorization to enter holidayholidays and excused absences.Approved excused absences must be documented in the Family Assistance/Client Services (FACS) case notes and noted on or documentation attached to Form 08TW013E, Time and Progress Report.OKDHSDHS pays participation allowances for holidays and approved excused absences.Holidays must be coded as H on the appropriate day(s).Approved excused absences are coded E with the appropriate number of hours on the specific day(s).The payment of a part-time or full-time participation rate is dependent on the number of hours coded for the approved excused absence(s).The maximum number of countable approved excused absences are:

(1) 16 hours for any given month; or

(2) 80 hours for the federal fiscal year.

(b) Refer to OAC 340:10-2-2(d) to determine good cause when the participant's excused absences exceed the maximum allowed.

8.Coordination between the participant, facility, and worker must be ongoing to accurately verify and document the number of hours coded as an excused absence.

9.Examples of a family crisis are attendance at a funeral or emergency home maintenance issues.

10.Job search and job readiness activities are limited in counting toward the participation rate to four consecutive weeks and a maximum of 240 hours at 20 hours per week or 360 hours at 30 hours per week for the preceding 12 month period.Refer to OAC 340:10-2-5 for job search and OAC 340:10-2-6 for job readiness activities.

11.Refer to OAC 340:10-2-6.1 Instructions to Staff (ITS) #3 for information regarding countable participation hours, documentation requirements, and coding instructions.

12.The worker reviews the document provided by the participant to determine if the participant is maintaining satisfactory progress and documents progress in FACS case notes.

1113.Refer to OAC 340:10-2-6.1 Instructions to StaffITS #1 for participation requirements.

340:10-2-4. Employment

Revised 10-1-17

(a) Applicability.Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Work activities are designed to help the participant obtain employment to achieve economic self‑sufficiency, per Sections 261.2, 261.10, and 261.30 of Title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations (45 C.F.R. §§ 261.2, 261.10, and 261.30).Work allows participants to enhance their self-esteem and to become more independent.Every effort is made to assist participants in securing jobs that provide financial security and opportunities for advancement.The appropriate employment criteria for subsidized and unsubsidized employment are included in (1) through (5) of this subsection.

(1) Appropriate employment may be temporary, permanent, full-time, part-time, or seasonal work, as long as the daily and weekly hours of employment do not exceed those customary to the occupation.

(2) The wage must meet or exceed the federal or state minimum wage laws or the prevailing rate for similar employment, whichever is applicable.The state law applies when federal law does not cover the job.

(3) A participant is not required to accept employment when the position offered is vacant due to a strike, lockout, or other bona fide labor dispute.

(4) A participant is not required to work for an employer when it is contrary to the conditions of membership in the union governing that occupation.Employment not governed by the rules of the union to which the participant belongs may be appropriate.

(5) A participant is not required to accept employment that results in the net loss of income.

(b) Unsubsidized employment.The State Work Incentive Program and any employment for which the employer does not receive reimbursement for any portion of the wages paid are examples of unsubsidized employment.

(1) State Work Incentive Program.The State Work Incentive Program is designed to assist in employing TANF participants into entry level positions in all branches of state government.Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS), in cooperation with other state agencies and the Office of Management and Enterprise Services Human Capital Management, coordinates job placements for TANF participants referred to the program on Form 08TW023E, State Work Incentive Referral.¢ 1

(A) Employment of eligible participants may be considered for positions of unclassified status for a two-year period in a full-time or part-time capacity.These positions are not included within any limitation on full-time equivalent employee positions for any agency.

(B) Participants hired under this program are eligible for leave and other benefits available to other state employees, subject to other eligibility requirements, and may be reassigned or promoted while in the program.

(C) Participants hired are exempt from probationary hiring procedures.They may be considered for conversion to permanent classified status after two years of continuous program participation.

(D) Requirements for placing employees in permanent status include:

(i) completing satisfactory performance ratings conducted during employment; and

(ii) having possession of the minimum requirements stated in the job specifications.

(2) Other unsubsidized employment.Unsubsidized employment includes any employment in which a participant is hired by a private or public employer and there is no reimbursement of any portion of the wages paid to the recipient.

(c) Subsidized employment.The Subsidized Employment Program (SEP),and on-the-job training (OJT), and Supported Transitional Employment Program (STEP) are examples of subsidized employment.The employment criteria in (a) of this Section apply.

(1) SEP.SEP is a subsidized employment program through which DHS reimburses employers hiring TANF participants into full-time employment for a portion of their wages for up to four months.Public agencies, nonprofit private agencies, and private employers are eligible to participate.When a state agency expresses an interest in participating in the program, DHS staff informs agency personnel that the subsidized employment reimbursement must not be used by the state agency to claim matching federal funds.When, for any reason in any given month, a SEP participant is paid less than the amount of his or her cash assistance at the time of entry into the program, the SEP participant receives a supplemental TANF benefit.SEP participants are entitled to all benefits the employer makes available to other employees.Participants are assigned based on their employability plan and the availability of appropriate and willing employers.¢ 2

(A) Participant requirements.TANF participants are:

(i) included in the cash assistance unit; and

(ii) available for immediate employment.

(B) Position requirements.Position requirements must include:

(i) full-time employment for a minimum of 35 hours per week;

(iii) the same wages, benefits, and working conditions as provided to other employees performing a substantially equivalent job;

(iv) employer agreement to conform to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and fair employment practices, such as nondiscrimination regarding age, race, sex, color, national origin, disability, and in some cases religion or political belief; and

(v) employer assurance the position does not:

(I) does not displace the employer's current employees, including any involved in a strike or lockout;

(II) does not involve commission sales when at least $10 per hour is not guaranteed; or

(III) is not for casual, intermittent, or seasonal labor.

(C) Recruitment of employers.Designated county staff or the career development specialist (CDS) recruits employers interested in SEP.The employer is asked to notify designated county staff or the CDS of potential positions with job specifications and qualifications in order to match the employer with an appropriate TANF participant referral.Designated county staff or the CDS give Form 08TW011E, Subsidized Employment Program (SEP) Referral to the TANF participant to take to the employer specified on the form.

(i) When explaining SEP to employers, designated county staff or the CDS emphasizes that employers are expected to retain the SEP participant in full-time employment unless there is good cause for the dismissal.Employers who fail to continue the successful SEP participant's employment without good cause are not granted subsequent contracts.Good cause reasons for dismissal occur when:

(I) there is a lay-off due to economic reasons that results in a reduction-in-force;

(II) the employee is frequently absent from work or engages in disruptive or inappropriate behavior; or

(III) the employee is unable to perform at an acceptable skill level.

(ii) Before designated county staff or the CDS writes new or additional contracts with an employer, SEP employees or other employees in lay-off status must be recalled.

(iii) Designated county staff or the CDS has the responsibility for ensuring the employer is complying with the contract.

(D) SEP placements. Designated county staff or the CDS arranges interviews between participants and potential employers.SEP participants may begin employment any time during the month.The employer is informed that reimbursement begins after the participant completes the first 30-calendar days of employment.

(i) Following the employer's agreement to participate and selection of a TANF participant, designated county staff or the CDS negotiates the contract, Form 08TW017E, Subsidized Employment Program (SEP) Contract, with the employer.Negotiation includes the beginning date of employment, the employee's salary, and the employee's planned number of employment hours per week.¢ 3

(ii) Upon receipt of the contract, designated county staff or the CDS reviews it for completeness and, when approved, signs and dates the contract.Designated county staff or the CDS delivers the employer's copy of the contract and Form 08TW018E, Subsidized Employment Program (SEP) Invoice, for requesting reimbursement to the employer.¢ 4

(iii) Designated county staff or the CDS contacts the participant to complete and sign Form 08TW006E, Subsidized Employment Program (SEP) Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Participant Agreement.¢ 5

(iv) When a contract is not approved, a letter is mailed by the designated county staff or the CDS to the employer explaining the reason for the disapproval.¢6Designated county staff or the CDS notifies the participant by phone or letter that the contract was not approved. ¢ 7

(E) Program procedures.The procedures for programs listed in (i) through (iv) of this subparagraph are used.

(i) TANF cash assistance.Under SEP, eligibility for TANF cash assistance is frozen.During the participation period, the TANF assistance unit cannot be determined ineligible. ¢ 8

(ii) Medical benefits.SEP participants whose TANF cash assistance is frozen, continue to be eligible for SoonerCare (Medicaid) benefits unless found ineligible for a reason other than earned income.

(iii) Food benefits.SEP participants whose TANF cash assistance is frozen and who are receiving Simplified Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SSNAP) benefits per Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 340:50-11-20 continue to receive SSNAP benefits without consideration of the SEP income during the participation period as long as household composition remains the same.Once the SEP participation period ends and the TANF benefit closes, the household may be eligible for transitional food benefits per OAC 340:50-11-27.

(iv) Child care.Child care plans must be explored with each SEP participant.During the SEP participation period while the TANF cash assistance is frozen, the child remains predetermined eligible for child care subsidy benefits with a zero family share co-paymentcopayment per OAC 340:40-7-1.Once the SEP participation period ends and the TANF benefit closes, the worker determines if the participant's child care renewal is due per OAC 340:40-9-1.When the child care renewal is due, the worker considers the participant's earnings and computes the family share copayment per DHS Appendix C-4, Child Care Eligibility/Copayment Chart.When the child care renewal is not due, the participant's family share copayment does not increase until the renewal is due per OAC 340:40-5-1(9).¢ 9

(F) Payment of employers.Employers are eligible for:

(i) one hundred percent reimbursement of the employee's gross wages, capped at a maximum of 40 hours per week at $12 per hour, for the first 30-calendar days of employment.

(I) Employers are eligible to apply for reimbursement 30-calendar days following the date of hire.

(II) Employers file for reimbursement by submitting Form 08TW018E, with proof of the participant's earnings for the last six months attached, directly to Adult and Family Services (AFS) TANF staff.¢ 10

(III) When a business changes ownership, the SEP contract transfers with the business.When change of ownership occurs mid-month, the original owner maintains the right to file a claim for reimbursement for the transfer month.The new owner may claim for subsidized wages for the remaining months of the original SEP agreement;¢ 8

(ii) fifty percent reimbursement of the employee's gross wages, for the following three months, provided the employee remains employed a minimum of 35 hours per week and earning at least $10 per hour.The reimbursement is capped at a maximum of 40 hours per week at $12 per hour; and

(iii) a bonus equal to 100 percent of the unsubsidized portion of wages up to 40 hours per week for the four month subsidized period, provided the SEP employee:

(I) remains employed a minimum of 35 hours per week;

(II) earns a minimum of $10 per hour; and

(III) is retained for a minimum period of six months after the subsidized agreement ends.¢ 11

(G) Supplemental payments to SEP participants.AFS automatically issues supplemental payments for months in which income shown on Form 08TW018E is less than the amount of the SEP participant's cash assistance prior to entering the program.

(H) SEP contract period completions.At the end of the fourth month of subsidized employment, the worker reviews the participant's continued TANF eligibility.¢ 12

(I) SEP contract terminations.When the SEP placement ends during the four months of subsidized employment, the worker reviews the participant's continued TANF eligibility.¢ 13

(2) OJT.OJT is subsidized employment in which a private or public employer hires the participant and, while engaged in productive work, receives training that provides knowledge or skills essential to the full performance of the job.During the OJT period, the employer receives reimbursement for a portion of the wages paid to the employee.

(A) Participants who successfully complete the Work Experience Program, have a recent history of employment, or complete a job readiness activity are the primary candidates for OJT referral.¢ 14

(B) Income from OJT is considered as any other earned income. ¢ 15

(C) The worker explains the availability of transitional child care per OAC 340:40-7-1 and continued medical benefits per OAC 340:10-3-75 to the participant at the time of entry into OJT.

(3) STEP.STEP is a subsidized employment program PROVIDING comprehensive support services leading to permanent employment placements for TANF participants.These services are contracted with specified vendors who provide temporary, paid work experience to program participants in a supportive work environment.When the participant is accepted into the program, his or her TANF benefit remains active with no cash benefit issued.When eligible, the participant continues to receive other program benefits.

(d) Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC).¢ 16The WOTC law permits for-profit employers to take a federal income tax credit when workers from certain target groups are hired.Workers in these target groups have faced significant barriers to employment.The WOTC is equal to between 25 percent and 40 percent of the first year wages, up to $9000, depending on the number of hours the employee works, and the applicable target group for the person.The main objective of this program is to enable targeted employees to gradually move from economic dependency into self-sufficiency as he or she earns a steady income and become contributing taxpayers, while the participating employers are compensated by reducing their federal income tax liability.

(1) WOTC is available to employers for workers hired from targeted groups.The targeted groups are:

(A) TANF recipients who have received assistance for nine months out of the last 18 months;

(B) qualified veterans.Qualified veterans are persons who received food benefits for at least three consecutive months within the last 15 months preceding the hire date;

(C) qualified ex-felons.Qualified ex-felons are persons who were convicted of a felony and within the last year were either convicted or released from prison;

(D) designated community residents.Designated community residents are persons, who are 18 years of age, but not 40 years of age, on the hiring date and whose principal place of residence is within an Empowerment Zone, Enterprise Community, or a Rural Renewal County, and for those who began work after May 25, 2007.This High-Risk Youth group was renamed "Designated Community Resident" and expanded to include residents of Rural Renewal Counties; ¢ 17

(E) vocational rehabilitation recipients.Vocational rehabilitation recipients are persons with a disability who received or are receiving vocational rehabilitation from a rehabilitation agency approved by the state or Department of Veterans Affairs;¢ 18

(F) qualified summer youth employees.Qualified summer youth employees are persons at least 16 years of age, but not 18 years of age, on the hiring date and have a principal residence in an Empowerment Zone, Enterprise Community, or Rural Renewal County hired between May 1 and September 15;

(G) qualified food benefit recipients.Qualified food benefit recipients are persons, who are at least 18 years of age, but not 40 years of age, who are:

(i) members of a household that received food benefits for the last six-consecutive months prior to their hiring date; or

(ii) able-bodied adults without dependents no longer eligible for benefits who reside with a household currently receiving food benefits or a household that received food benefits for at least three months out of the last five consecutive months, prior to the hiring date;

(H) qualified recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI).Qualified recipients of SSI are persons who received SSI for any month during the 60-calendar days before the hire date;

(I) long-term TANF recipients.Long-term TANF recipients are persons certified by a designated local agency as members of families who received TANF payments for:

(i) at least 18 consecutive months ending on the hiring date;

(ii) a total of at least 18 months, whether consecutive or not, after August 5, 1997, when hired within two years after the date the 18 month total is reached;

(J) Hurricane Katrina employees.Hurricane Katrina employees do not require certification;

(K) unemployed veterans.Unemployed veterans are persons hired after 2008, and before 2011, who:

(i) were discharged or released from active duty in the United States (U.S.) Armed Forces at any time during the five-year period ending on the hiring date; and

(ii) received unemployment compensation under federal or state law for at least four weeks during the one-year period ending on the hiring date; and

(L) disconnected youth.Disconnected youth are persons certified as:

(i) having attained 16 years of age, but not 25 years of age, on the hiring date;

(ii) not regularly attending any secondary, technical, or post-secondary school during the six month period preceding the hiring date;

(iii) not regularly employed during the six month period preceding the hiring date; and

(iv) not readily employable by reason of lacking a sufficient number of basic skills.

(2) Through an agreement with the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, DHS issues WOTC conditional certification forms for DHS recipients.

(3) U.S. Department of Labor Form ETA-9062, Conditional Certification Work Opportunity Tax Credit, and a letter from the worker stating the number of months the participant received DHS benefits is given to the participant to present to the employer, on or before, the first day of employment.An explanation is given to the participant about the purpose of the form and how the tax credit may help the participant get a job.

(e) Work Experience Program (WEP).The purpose of WEP is to provide job skills and work enhancement to TANF participants enabling them to move toward self-sufficiency and obtain unsubsidized employment following completion of the placement. ¢ 19

(1) Benefits.Program benefits for participants include an opportunity to establish a work history and earn a recommendation from an employer.Participants also learn to balance the demands of home and work, gain confidence by performing in a job setting, enhance current job skills, learn marketable skills on-the-job, and determine interest and aptitude for a particular type of work by doing the job.

(2) WEP assignments.WEP assignments are approved for an initial period of 90- calendar days.

(A) No salary is paid.

(B) With respect to injuries incurred during WEP working hours, federal law requires medical coverage be offered under either state workers' compensation law or by DHS.Oklahoma workers' compensation law does not cover WEP participants.Medical coverage is provided by the SoonerCare (Medicaid) Program. ¢20

(3) WEP referrals.Participants are referred to WEP slots based on the employability plan.The worker coordinates assignment to a WEP position with the participant.Based on the employability plan, the worker:

(A) determines which facility best meets the participant's needs;

(B) arranges an interview between the facility and the participant; and

(C) notifies the participant of the place, time, and interviewer's name.¢ 21

(4) WEP facilities.Facilities selected for WEP placements must be capable of providing employment and have an apparent intent to hire, or be able to provide quality job skills enhancement.WEP facilities are solicited by designated county staff, the CDS, or a contracted entity who agreed to assist with job development and placement, including WEP.¢ 22Local job market conditions, opportunities for employment following completion of WEP participation, as well as the ability of the facility to provide the necessary supervision and skills enhancement are criteria used when soliciting a facility.

(A) WEP slots are developed to meet participant employment needs as determined by the employability plan.When a facility agrees to participate in WEP, the facility representative is requested to provide: ¢ 23

(i) a written description of the type of activities in which the participant will be involved in;

(ii) the number of participants the facility can accept;

(iii) the hours of participation; and

(iv) any special requirements, such as uniforms or special equipment.

(B) There are two types of WEP facilities, WEP Non-profit (WEP-NP) and WEP-For-Profit (WEP-FP).

(i) WEP-NP placement is approved for public and private non-profit organizations or businesses.When a participant requires additional skills enhancement, the worker may approve a 60-calendar day extension.Extensions are not granted when the primary purpose is to provide additional help to the facility.The criteria listed in (I) through (VII) of this unit are used as a guide in determining the appropriateness of requesting an extension beyond the initial three-month period.

(I) The participant needs additional time to acquire skills to meet minimum hiring requirements.

(II) The participant demonstrates a willingness to learn, but needs additional time to develop new skills, to compete in the labor market.

(III) The facility agrees to hire the participant, but does not have funds available or a job opening until a specific date.

(IV) The facility has an opening in a different area from where the participant was working and agrees to hire the participant when additional time is granted for additional development of job skills.

(V) The participant showed improvement in all areas, but needs additional socialization skills and improved behavior patterns in a work setting.

(VI) The participant missed more than two weeks due to illness or the illness of a household member.

(VII) There are extenuating circumstances that prevented the participant from receiving full benefit of the job skills enhancement.

(ii) WEP-FP is approved for businesses or entities that operate for profit.Only one WEP-FP placement is allowed per 25 full-time employees in a for-profit business or entity.The criteria in (I) through (II) of this unit must be in effect prior to a WEP-FP placement.

(I) The placement matches the participant's employability plan and the career path chosen by the participant.

(II) The employer committed to hire the participant, on or before, the completion of the three-month placement.

(5) WEP procedures.Upon the county director, designated county staff, or the CDS approval, the worker contacts the WEP facility to complete Form 08TW015E, Work Experience Program – Non-profit Training Agreement, or Form 08TW115E, Work Experience Program – For-Profit Training Agreement.

(A) The worker instructs the facility representative or supervisor on the purpose and use of Form 08TW013E, Time and Progress Report.

(B) It is the participant's responsibility to complete Form 08TW013E and submit it to the worker by the day of the month shown on the form.¢ 24

(C) Approved WEP slots not utilized within a six-month period are reviewed for appropriateness.When the position is no longer feasible, designated county staff or the CDS sends a letter to the facility stating the WEP slot is no longer active and may be re-evaluated at the facility's request.

(6) Non-cooperation by WEP facility.When the worker obtains information the facility is violating the terms and conditions of Forms 08TW015E and/or 08TW115E, or participants are treated unfairly, the county director is informed immediately.The nature of the allegations guides the necessary action that may include:

(A) suspension of subsequent assignments at the facility;

(B) immediate removal of current participants; or

(C) termination of the agreement.

(7) Notification to participant and facility.Ten-calendar days prior to the anticipated WEP completion date, or at any time the participant becomes ineligible for WEP, the worker notifies the participant by letter or phone call.The worker notifies the facility by letter or phone call five-calendar days prior to the termination.

(8) Changes in placements and subsequent placements.When the facility, worker, and participant determine placement in a different facility is more beneficial, the worker locates a new facility and arranges an interview for the participant.When the participant fails to secure employment following successful completion of WEP, a conference is held with the participant, worker, and supervisor to determine if a second WEP placement might be beneficial.The worker reviews the employability plan prior to allowing a participant to re-enter WEP.Consideration is given to reassignment to job search or another appropriate work activity.In making this decision, consideration must be given to the:

(A) participant's ability to secure and maintain full-time employment;

(B) opportunities for employment in the new field and in the area in which the participant received job skills enhancement;

(C) participant's efforts to secure employment; and

(D) length of time between assignments.

(f) Community Partnership (CP).CP is unpaid employment in which TANF recipients perform work for the direct benefit of the community.A CP may be approved for both public and non-profit agencies and organizations.A CP assignment is limited to projects that serve a useful community purpose and are designed to improve the employability of recipients not otherwise able to obtain employment.All CPs must be approved by AFS TANF staff.Placements in CP require daily supervision.A recipient's training, experience, and skills are considered in making an appropriate CP assignment.¢ 25

(1) Benefits.Participant program benefits include an opportunity to establish the basic skills necessary to obtain employment, such as daily attendance, appropriate attire, and proper behavior in a work environment.Participants also learn to balance the demands of home and work and gain confidence by performing in a job setting.

(2) CP facilities.CP facilities are solicited by designated county staff or the CDS.The ability of the CP to provide the necessary supervision and basic skills training are criteria used when soliciting a partnership.

(A) Training slots are developed to meet the participant's employment needs as determined by the employability plan.

(B) The worker submits Form 08TW019E, Community Partnership (CP) Approval Request, to AFS TANF staff for training facility approval.

(C) When a CP agrees to participate, the facility representative is requested to provide:

(i) a written description of the type of activities in which the participants will be involved;

(ii) the number of participants the CP can accept;

(iii) the hours of participation; and

(iv) any special requirements, such as uniforms or special equipment.

(D) No salary is paid.

(E) When injuries occur during working hours in CP, federal law requires medical coverage be offered under either state workers' compensation law or by DHS.Oklahoma workers' compensation law does not cover CP participants.Medical coverage is provided by the SoonerCare (Medicaid) Program. ¢ 26

(3) CP assignments.CP assignments are approved for an initial period of no more than 60-calendar days.When a participant requires additional training, the worker may approve a 30-calendar day extension.The criteria listed in (A) through (F) of this paragraph are used as a guide when determining the appropriateness of an extension request beyond the initial 60-calendar day period, but are not limited to:

(A) the participant needs additional time to acquire skills to meet minimum hiring requirements;

(B) the participant demonstrates a willingness to learn, but needs additional time to develop basic job skills necessary to compete in the labor market;

(C) the CP has an opening in a different area from the one in which the participant was trained;

(D) the participant shows improvement in all areas, but needs additional socialization skills and improved behavior patterns in a work setting;

(E) the participant missed more than two weeks of training due to illness or the illness of a household member; or

(F) extenuating circumstances prevented the participant from receiving the full benefit of the training.

(4) CP referrals.Participants are referred to CP slots based on their employability plan and the availability of CP positions.¢ 27Assignment to a CP position is coordinated between the participant, worker, and the CP.Based on the employability plan, the participant and worker determine:

(A) which CP best meets the participant's needs; and

(B) the location, date, and time to report to the CP.

(5) Procedures.Upon approval by AFS TANF staff, the worker contacts the CP facility to complete Form 08TW020E, Community Partnership (CP) Agreement.

(A) The worker instructs the facility representative or the training supervisor regarding the purpose and use of Form 08TW013E.

(B) It is the participant's responsibility to complete Form 08TW013E and submit it to the worker by the day of the month shown on the form.¢ 24

(6) Non-cooperation by CP.When the worker obtains information that the CP is violating the terms and conditions of Form 08TW020E or participants are treated unfairly, the worker informs the county director, designated county staff, or the CDS immediately.The nature of the allegations guides the necessary action that may include:

(A) suspension of subsequent CP assignments;

(B) immediate removal of the current participants; or

(C) termination of the agreement.

(7) Changes in placements and subsequent placements.Following successful completion of CP training, the worker and participant meet to determine if a second CP placement or other work activity might be beneficial.The worker reviews the employability plan prior to allowing a participant to enter the next work activity.¢ 27When making this decision, consideration is given to:

(A) the participant's ability to secure and maintain employment;

(B) whether the participant needs additional training or placement opportunities to enhance employment skills; or

(C) whether the participant needs any educational opportunities to enhance employment skills.

INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF 340:10-2-4

Revised 10-1-17

1.(a) When another state agency requests a referral for a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) participant, designated county staff or the career development specialist (CDS) completes Form 08TW023E, State Work Incentive Referral, for the participant to take to the other state agency.

(b) When designated county staff or the CDS refers the participant to another county office, a referral form is not needed.

(c) Documentation of all referrals and outcomes must be kept in the case record.

2.Subsidized Employment Program (SEP) contracts require Adult and Family Services (AFS), TANF staff approval.

3.When an employer has not previously contracted with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS), the employer must also complete and sign Form 10CO135E, Vendor Information – Substitute W-9.

4.Designated county staff or the CDS files the original of Form 08TW017E, Subsidized Employment Program (SEP) Contract, and Form 10CO135E, if needed, in the case record and sends a copy to AFS TANF staff.When Form 10CO135E is completed, designated county staff or the CDS must fax the form to Financial Services, Claims at (405) 522-2082.

5.Designated county staff or the CDS gives the original Form 08TW006E, Subsidized Employment Program (SEP) Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Participant Agreement, to the participant.

6.Designated county staff or the CDS files a copy of the letter and contract in the participant's case record.

7.Designated county staff or the CDS records the date and means of contact with the participant and the employer in Family Assistance/Client Services (FACS) case notes.

8.(a) Upon receipt of completed Forms 08TW006E and 08TW017E, designated county staff or the CDS determines if the new SEP employer is on the provider file.

(1) To view provider files, enter P space federal identification (ID) number on the information management system (IMS) network.

(2) When the new SEP employer is not on the provider file, designated county staff or the CDS enters PU.This transaction brings up a screen designated staff must complete by entering the type of request as N, the business name, address, telephone number, and the new employer's federal identification (ID) number.

(3) When ownership of the business changes, the new owner information must be on the provider file.

(b) Once the employer is listed on the provider file, designated county staff or the CDS authorizes payment by entering AUWC, space, the participant's case number, and inputting information on the screen per AUW transaction instructions.After the authorization clears, the computer automatically updates the case status to Special Medical, effective the following regular roll.

(c) The worker completes periodic renewals of eligibility per Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 340:65-3-8(b) time frames.

9.When the renewal is not due, the system does not increase the family share copayment and the worker does not decrease the number of units or unit type until renewal.The worker may increase the number of units and unit type when applicable.

10.Upon receipt of Form 08TW018E, Subsidized Employment Program (SEP) Invoice, AFS TANF staff audits the invoice for completeness and compensability, signs it, and processes the claim for reimbursement.

11.(a) When the employer is eligible for the bonus reimbursement, the SEP authorization remains open until the bonus payment is made to the employer.Once the payment is made, the worker closes the SEP authorization, effective the last day of the 10th month of employment.

(b) When the employer is not eligible for the bonus reimbursement, the SEP authorization remains open until the final SEP payment is made.The worker closes the SEP authorization, effective the last day of the fourth month of the subsidy period.

12.(a) Designated county staff or the CDS submits the final Form 08TW018E to AFS TANF staff.

(b) When the participant remains eligible for TANF, the worker updates the participant's:

(1) TANF ET&E status field F154 of the TANF Work tab in the FACS Interview Notebook; and

(2) TANF benefit status by resending the benefit (F24), status (F25), and effective date (F26) fields in the Household tab.

(c) When the participant is not eligible for TANF, the worker closes the Financial Assistance section in the FACS Eligibility Notebook using the appropriate reason and updates other benefits sections as needed.

13.(a) When the participant remains eligible for TANF, the worker updates the participant's:

(1) TANF ET&E status field F154 of the TANF Work tab in the FACS Interview Notebook; and

(2) TANF benefit status by resending the benefit (F24), status (F25), and effective date (F26) fields in the Household tab.

(b) When the participant is not eligible for TANF, the worker closes the TANF benefit for the appropriate reason and updates other benefits sections as appropriate.The worker must determine the client's eligibility for other cash assistance, medical benefits, food benefits, and child care benefits as soon as possible and issue supplements when necessary.

14.The worker refers participants to on-the-job training (OJT) by completing Form 08TW003E, Interagency Referral and Information.

15.Refer to OAC 340:10-3-40(12) when the OJT is AmeriCorps Vista.

16.The designated county staff or CDS informs the employer of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) availability as it relates to the SEP.WOTC is available for the unsubsidized portion of the wages actually paid.

17.For information about Enterprise Communities, refer to www.ezec.gov.

18.A person participating in a drug or alcohol treatment facility does not qualify.

19.Designated county staff or the CDS avoids placement of trainees with facilities that consistently use Work Experience Program (WEP) participants without providing first option employment.

20.The county director reports injuries to DHS Human Resources Management (HRM) Employee Focused Services on Form 23RS046E, Employee's Report of Job-Related Accidental Injury or Illness.

21.Following the participant's interview with the facility and the facility's acceptance of the participant for training, the worker makes a notation on the copy of Form 08TW002E, TANF Work/Personal Responsibility Agreement, and initiates an authorization.The worker completes Form 08TW014E, Work Experience Program – Nonprofit Participant Agreement, or Form 08TW114E, Work Experience Program – For-Profit Participant Agreement, at this time.The worker mails a copy of Form 08TW014E or Form 08TW114E to the facility as notification of the participant's starting date.

22.A contracted entity may include, but is not limited to the:

(1) Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (ODCTE);

(2) Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (OSRHE);

(3) Workforce Investment Act (WIA); or

(4) Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC).

23.The worker forwards the written description to the county director or designee requesting training slot approval.

24.Form 08TW013E, Time and Progress Report, advises the participant to submit pages one and two to the local county office by the 20th of the current month and pages three and four by the fifth of the next month.

25. Examples of Community Partnerships may include:

(1) community outreach and enrichment programs, such as free clinics, the Urban League, community food banks, and clothes closets;

(2) public safety organizations, such as the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality, local police or fire departments, Oklahoma Department of Transportation, County Commissioners' offices, and Oklahoma State Department of Health city or county offices;

(3) educational facilities, such as local schools and colleges.Activities at local schools might include janitorial or maintenance work, playground monitors, or cafeteria workers;

(4) animal welfare organizations, such as the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, local humane societies, and animal shelters;

(5) child care programs, such as Head Start and licensed after school programs;

(6) agencies responsible for community recreation or beautification of cities, counties, or the state, such as the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, local parks and recreation programs, or local Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) programs;

(7) other city, county, or state agencies or entities that provide services to the community;

(8) charitable organizations, such as the United Way, Salvation Army, and Goodwill Industries International Inc.;

(9) charitable organizations or faith based entities that sponsor organized community events, such as Relay for Life, health fairs, and community Thanksgiving or Christmas programs or dinners; and

(10) Office of Faith and Community Engagement Services programs.

26.The county director reports injuries to DHS HRM Employee Focused Services on Form 23RS046E.

27.The worker must update Form 08TW002E.

340:10-2-6.1. Educational services

Revised 11-1-089-15-18

Educational services are made available to enhance the participant's potential for employment must be made available.Assignment is based on the criteria listed in (1) through (6) of this paragraphSection.

(1) Custodial parent participants under 20 years of age without a high school diploma are required to participate in educational activities directed toward the attainment of a high school diploma or its equivalent.¢ 1These personsParticipants may be excused from high school attendance or courses designed to lead to a General Educational Development (GED)high school equivalency certificate ifwhen the employability plan includes an alternative, such as basic education or English as a second language (ESL).¢ 2

(2) Participants age 20 oryears of age and older that have not completed high school may participate in a basic or remedial education program.

(3) Assignment to remedial education services is appropriate for participants who read and write below high school level, even ifwhen they have a high school diploma or GEDhigh school equivalency certificate.Basic and remedial education includes:

(A) Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes;

(B) GEDhigh school equivalency classes;

(C) Certificate of High School Equivalency;

(D) literacy classes;

(E)(D) tutoring; or

(F)(E) remedial reading classes.

(4) Participants lacking proficiency in understanding, speaking, reading, or writing the English language are assigned to ESL classes.

(5) Participants already in attendance at an institution of higher education are considered appropriately assigned ifwhen the participant cooperates in the assessment process and development of an appropriate employability plan.

(A) When the institution of higher education has a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)-funded contract, the participant must attend through the contracted provider.

(B) The participant is required to participate the minimum number of hours in an activity listed inper Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 340:10-2-1(2) or as mandated by the TANF-contracted provider.¢ 3

(C) The participant must maintain satisfactory academic progress with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 and verify progress at mid-term, when possible, and at the end of the semester.Progress may be verified by a grade report, transcript, or a statement from the contracted provider or other school official.¢ 4

(D) When satisfactory progress is not met, the worker submits Form 08TW008E, Higher Education Probationary Approval Request, to Adult and Family Services TANF program field representative staff to request a probationary approval period.When the probationary approval period is not approved, the participant is placed in another TANF Work activity.

INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF 340:10-2-6.1

Revised 6-1-099-15-18

1.(a) These participants are required to work on a high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED)high school equivalency certificate and cannot be required to participate in any other Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Work activity. Persons in highHigh school participants may count homework or study time up to one hour for each class hour, when at the beginning of each new class or semester; he or she provides a statement from the instructor stating that the additional time is:

(1) a class requirement;

(2) above and beyond work normally completed during class hours; and

(3) not being used to make up missed class hours of class that have been missed.

(b) The participant documents on Form 08TW013E, Time and Progress Report, the hours spent in class.The worker records homework or study time hours only on days the participant attended class on Form 08TW013E, Time and Progress Report and in the system after ensuring that documentation required to count these hours is in the case record.

(c) Participants may volunteer to participate in a TANF Work activity that is scheduled, structured, and supervised when school or GEDhigh school equivalency classes are not in session.Participants who volunteer cannot beVoluntary participants are not sanctioned for failure to participate.

(d) All TANF Work activities must be:

(1) coded in the Family Assistance Client Services (FACS) Eligibility Notebook Auth ET&E tab; and

(2) documented in Case Notes.

2.For a teen parent who is a child in the TANF assistance unit, refer to Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 340:10-13-1 for school attendance requirements.

3.(a) Persons participating in a vocational certificate, associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or advanced degree program as part of the employability planmay count homework or study time up to one hour for each class hour when the participant, at the beginning of each new class or semester, provides a class syllabus or a statement from the instructor, professor, or advisor which statesstating the additional time is:

(1) a class requirement;

(2) above and beyond work normally completed during class hours; and

(3) is not being used to make up missed class hours of class that have been missed.

(b) Time spent in vocational training in excess of 12 months that is an approved part of the participant's employability plan may be counted toward the required work activity hours ifwhen the participant is also participating in a different approved core activity for a minimum of 20 hours per week.

(c) The participant documents the hours spent in class on Form 08TW013E, Time and Progress Report, the hours spent in class.The worker records homework or study time hours only on the days the participant attended class on Form 08TW013E and in the system after ensuring that documentation required to count these hours is in the case record.

(d) All TANF Work activities must be:

(1) coded in the Family Assistance Client Services (FACS) Eligibility Notebook Auth ET&E tab; and

(2) documented in Case Notes.

4.The worker reviews the document provided by the participant to determine if the participant is maintaining satisfactory progress and documents the progress in FACS case notes.

340:10-2-7. Training

Revised 6-1-119-15-18

(a) Scope.Job skills training activities include vocational training and hands-on work experience to develop technical skills, knowledge, and abilities in specific occupational areas.¢ 1All training programs must include qualitative measures, such as competency gains or proficiency levels, to evaluate a participant's progress and reasonable time limits for completion.Referrals are made to appropriate training facilities on Form 08TW003E, Interagency Referral and Information.

(b) Assignments.Any training to which the participant is assigned must meet the criteria in (1) through (4) of this subsection.

(1) The hours of any training activity are governed by the training facility but must not exceed 40 hours per week.¢ 2

(2) The training is preparation for a job whichthat meets the criteria for appropriate employment.

(3) The quality and type of training must meet local employers' requirements so participants are in a competitive position with the local labor market.

(4) Training is related to in-demand occupations whichthat are likely to become available in Oklahoma.

(c) Job Corps non-resident training program (Job Corps II). Oklahoma's four Job Corps centers provide a nonresident Job Corps program to TANF participants who can commute to their sites.Participants referred must be between 16 throughand 24 years of age.Referrals are made by theThe Adult and Family Services (AFS) worker completingcompletes Form 08MP013E, Information/Referral Socialfor Other Services to refer the TANF participant to Job Corp.It is the AFS worker's responsibility of the worker to coordinate with the Job Corps center andto arrange for child care.

(1) By special agreement with the Job Corps centers, Job Corps II students are provided Job Corps participant training allowances designed to meet training costs not covered by the TANF cash assistance.These allowances are not considered as income.

(2) The worker coordinates with the centers and other designated agencies, such as Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) and Workforce Investment Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIA)(WIOA) partners, to ensure Job Corps II students leaving the center are placed in an appropriate work activity.When a Job Corps II student leaves the center, the worker meets with the Job Corps II student to make immediate plans for further implementation of the employability plan.

(d) Vocational training.Up to 12 months of participation in a vocational certificate, associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or advanced degree program may count as vocational training when it qualifies a personparticipant to obtain immediate employment in a specific field.

(1) When the institution of higher education has a TANF-funded contract, the participant must attend through the contracted provider.

(2) The participant is required to participate the minimum number of hours in a TANF activity per OAC 340:10-2-1(2) or as mandated by the TANF-contracted provider.

(3) The participant must maintain satisfactory academic progress with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 and verify progress at mid-term, when possible, and at the end of the semester.Progress may be verified by a grade report, transcript, or a statement from the contracted provider or other school official.¢ 3

(4) When satisfactory progress is not met, the AFS worker submits Form 08TW008E, Higher Education Probationary Approval Request, to AFS TANF program field representative staff to request a probationary approval period.When the probationary approval period is not approved, the participant is placed in another TANF Work activity.

(5) PersonsParticipants participating in a vocational certificate, associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or advanced degree program as part of the employability plan may count homework or study time up to one hour for each class hour, when the participant provides, at the beginning of each new class or semester,; a class syllabus or a statement from the instructor, professor, or advisor whichthat states that the additional time is:

(1)(A) a class requirement;

(2)(B) above and beyond work normally completed during class hours; and

(3)(C)not used to make up missed class hours of class that have been missed.¢ 34

(e) Special programs and demonstration efforts with other agencies.OKDHSDHS may enter into special education, training, or employment efforts with federal, state, and local governments, and private for-profit, private not-for-profit organizations, and agencies.When this occurs, the human services center (HSC) involved county office staff is expected to comply with the terms of those agreements.¢ 45

(f) Job skills training.Training that is directly related to employment for job skills required by an employer to provideor that provides a personparticipant with the ability to obtain employment or to advance or adapt to the changing demands of the workplace is considered job skills training.

(1) Time spent in vocational training in excess of 12 months that is an approved part of the participant's employability plan may be counted toward the required work activity hours, ifwhen the participant is also participatingparticipates in a different approved core activity for a minimum of 20 hours per week.

(2) Homework or study time may count up to one hour for each class hour, when the participant provides, at the beginning of each new class or semester,; a class syllabus or a statement from the instructor, professor, or advisor whichthat states that the additional time is:

(A) a class requirement;

(B) above and beyond the work normally completed during class hours; and

(C) not used to make up missed class hours of class that have been missed.¢ 34

INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF 340:10-2-7

Revised 6-1-119-15-18

1.Prior to enrolling a participant in a specific training program, the worker must evaluate whether an Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) background checksearch is a prerequisite for potential employment.A background checksearch may be considered a prerequisite for potential employment when a criminal history is indicated or when required by a specific employer or field of employment, such as medical or child care.This action couldmay prevent an inappropriate placement in a training program that would not best suit the employment needs ofin which the participant would be barred from employment.A background checksearch is not necessary for all Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) participants.Refer to Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 340:10-2-8.

2.Participation hours may be combined with other countable work activity hours to meet the minimum hours of required participation.Refer to OAC 340:10-2-1.

3.The worker reviews reviews the document provided by the participant to determine if the participant is maintaining satisfactory progress and documents the progress in Family Assistance/Client Services (FACS) case notes.

34.(a) The participant documents on Form 08TW013E, Time and Progress Report, the hours spent in class.The worker records homework or study time hours only on the days the participant attended class on Form 08TW013E and in the system after ensuring that documentation required to count these hours is in the case record.

(b) A practicum placement, internship, or work-based training that is required to complete a degree or vocational training certification may be counted as work experience.In some types of degree programs, the work-based training is completed after the degree is obtained.ItWhen the work-based training occurs after degree completion, it is only allowable when the personparticipant cannot work in the field until the work-based training is completed.An example is student teaching.These work-based training activities are coded in the Family Assistance Client Services (FACS) Eligibility Notebook Auth ET&E tab as work experience (TW).

45.Copies of the agreements and procedures for implementing the program are distributed through annual FSSDAdult and Family Services numbered memos.Workers are trained and the program is implemented according to the agreement.

SUBCHAPTER 3. CONDITIONS OF ELIGIBILITY - NEED

PART 3. INCOME

340:10-3-31.1. Earned income disregard

Revised 10-1-17

(a) A Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipient may be eligible to receive an earned income disregard (EID) when conditions described in (1) through (3) of this Sectionsubsection are met.When applied, the earned income disregardEID excludes all earned income from consideration against the cash assistance payment for up to three consecutive months.The recipient is eligible for one earned income disregardEID period per rolling 12-month period.¢ 1

(1) Applicants and individuals not included in the cash assistance unit are not eligible for an earned income disregardEID.

(2) The combined monthly earned income of all TANF cash assistance unit members must not exceed $2,064.

(3) Before applying the earned income disregardEID, the worker first subtracts all applicable earned income exemptions per Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 340:10-3-33 from the payment standard to determine if the individual remains eligible for TANF.

(A) Refer to Schedule IX on the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) Appendix C-1, Schedule of Maximum Income, Resource, and Payment Standards for the TANF payment standard.

(B) When the recipient remains eligible, the assistance unit is not eligible for an earned income disregardEID period.

(C) When the client is eligible for an EID period, the worker and client update and sign Form 08TW002E, TANF Work/Personal Responsibility Agreement, to include the client's place of employment and scheduled hours.¢ 1

(b) When child care is needed during the EID period, the child remains predetermined eligible with a zero family share copayment per OAC 340:40-7-1.

(c) When the client loses his or her job during the EID period, the worker removes the earned income and the EID for the next non-advance notice effective date per Appendix B-2, Deadlines for Case Actions.

(1) Unless the client begins new employment within 10-business days of losing the first job, he or she is not eligible for the remainder of the EID period.¢ 2

(2) The worker and client update and sign Form 08TW002E indicating the client's agreed upon TANF work activities.

(3) When child care is open and the client begins participating in a TANF Work activity, the worker adjusts the child care plan hours to meet the needs of the new activity when increased plan hours are needed.Per OAC 340:40-5-1(3)(D), child care plan hours are not decreased until the child care renewal is due.

(4) When child care is open and the client does not begin participating in a TANF Work activity, child care is extended for 90-calendar days per OAC 340:40-7-8 and 340:40-9-2(f)(4).

(d) When the client remains employed for the entire EID period, an automated process closes the TANF benefit for the next negative action effective date per Appendix B-2.

(1) When Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program food benefits are open, refer to OAC 340:50-11-27 and DHS Appendix C-3, Maximum Food Benefit Allotments and Standards for Income and Deductions, to determine continued eligibility.

(2) The client remains eligible for SoonerCare (Medicaid) per OAC 340:10-3-75.

(3) When child care subsidy benefits are open the worker determines if the participant's child care renewal is due per OAC 340:40-9-1.When the child care renewal is:

(A) due, the worker considers the participant's earnings in determining continued eligibility and family share copayment amount per DHS Appendix C-4, Child Care Eligibility/Copayment Chart; or

(B) not due, the participant's family share copayment does not increase until the renewal is due per OAC 340:40-5-1(9).¢ 3

INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF 340:10-3-31.1

Revised 10-1-17

1.(a) When the recipient is eligible for the earned income disregard (EID) period and reports the income timely, the worker:

(1) calculates earned income using the MICAL transaction and inputs and disregards the recipient's gross earnings for three months by entering:

(A) a 'C' in the 'type action taken' block and the next negative action effective date in the 'effective date' block of the Financial Assistance tab of the Family Assistance/Client Services (FACS) system;

(B) the recipient's gross earnings in the 'earned income' field or self-employment in the "monthly self-employment income" and "monthly business expenses" fields;

(C) the date the job started or the first date the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) payee and/or spouse received the increased income in "TANF 3E income chg date" field; and

(D) the date of the first month that income is disregarded in "TANF 3E eff date" field;

(2) opens a TANF Work authorization with WF or WP in the 'component' field, the first day of employment in the 'begin/change date' field and the first day of the third month in the ' assessment date' field.From example(d)(2) of this Instruction, the worker enters WF in the 'component' field, 06-05-2015 in the 'begin/change date' block, and 09-01-2015 in the 'assessment date' field; and

(3) documents in FACS case notes, the:

(A) recipient's employment start date;

(B) employer's name;

(C) income calculations used to determine eligibility for the EID period; and

(D) three months included in the EID period.

(b) The worker MUST record TANF participation hours for each month of the EID period on the ETPAI screen and close the employment authorization at the end of the EID period.

(c) Examples regarding application of the EID are contained in (1) through (3) of this subsection.

(1) The TANF recipient receives a $292 cash assistance payment for a three person household.The recipient starts working and earns $700 per month.After applying the $240 work related expense and $230 one half remainder earned income exemptions, the recipient remains eligible for a $62 cash assistance payment ($700 - $240 – $230 = $230.$292 - $230 = $62).Since the recipient remains eligible, he or she is not eligible for the EID.

(2) The recipient receives a $292 cash assistance payment for a three-person household.The recipient begins earning $1950 per month on June 5, 2015.After applying the earned income exemptions, $1950 - $240 = $1710 ÷ 2 = $855, the recipient is ineligible for TANF.Since the recipient's earnings are less than $2064 and he or she has not received an earned income disregard within the most recent 12-month period, the recipient's earnings are disregarded for three months.The EID period is July, August, and September, 2015.

(A) The recipient loses the job on July 5, 2015, within the first month of the disregard period.The worker removes the earned income for the next effective date.The disregard period ends in September 2015, even though the recipient did not use the EID for two of the three months.

(B) The recipient obtains a new job in September 2015, with monthly earnings of $900.$900 - $240 = $660 ÷ 2 = $330 that exceeds the TANF payment standard of $292 for a three-person household.Because the recipient is not eligible for a new EID period until July 2016, the recipient's TANF benefit closes the next effective date.

(C) The person loses the job, reapplies, and is certified for TANF in January 2016.In May 2016, the client obtains a new job earning $1500.$1500 - $240 = $1260 ÷ 2 = $630.Because the recipient's countable earnings exceed the $292 TANF payment standard and the recipient is not eligible until July 2016, for a new EID period, the recipient's TANF benefit closes the next effective date.

(D) The person applies for TANF in August 2015, continues to earn $1500 per month, and is denied.Because the person is an applicant and not a recipient, he or she is not eligible for an EID.

(3) A TANF recipient receives a $292 cash assistance payment for a three-person household.The recipient obtains a job earning $3,000 per month.The recipient is not eligible for an earned income disregard because he or she earns more than $2,064 per month.

2.When the recipient obtains new employment:

(1) within 10-business days of the loss of the original job and his or her countable earnings are too high to receive a TANF cash assistance payment, but are below the $2,604 maximum, the recipient remains eligible for the EID period;

(2) within 10-business days of the loss of original job and the earnings are above the $2,604 maximum per (b)(2) of this Section, the worker closes the TANF benefit for the next advance-notice effective date per DHS Appendix B-2, Deadlines for Case Actions, and determines the recipient's continued eligibility for food benefits, SoonerCare (Medicaid), and child care subsidy benefits per (d) of this Section; or

(3) on the 11th business day following loss of original job, the recipient is no longer eligible for the EID period.The worker closes the TANF benefit for the next advance-notice effective date per DHS Appendix B-2, and determines the recipient's continued eligibility for food benefits, SoonerCare (Medicaid), and child care subsidy benefits per (d) of this Section.

3.When the child care renewal is not due, the system does not increase the family share copayment and the worker does not decrease the number of units or unit type until renewal.The worker may increase the number of units and unit type when applicable.