Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 461 - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES, SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAMS

Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Chapter 461 falls under the Department of Human Services (DHS), specifically its Self-Sufficiency Programs (SSP). This comprehensive chapter of rules governs the various assistance programs designed to help low-income individuals and families in Oregon achieve stability and self-sufficiency.

Mission of DHS Self-Sufficiency Programs:

The core mission of SSP, as reflected in these rules, is to "provide a safety net, family stability and a connection to careers that guide individuals and families out of poverty." This involves offering direct financial and food assistance, as well as support services aimed at employment and improved well-being.

Key Programs and Areas Covered by OAR Chapter 461:

Chapter 461 is highly detailed, addressing everything from general definitions and client rights to specific program eligibility and benefit calculation. Here are the major programs and areas covered:

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (Food Benefits): This is one of the most significant programs detailed. The rules cover:

Eligibility criteria: Income limits (often up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level), household composition, citizenship/alien status, and specific requirements for students.

Application and Verification: Procedures for applying, what documentation is needed, and how information is verified.

Benefit Calculation: How benefit levels are determined based on income, household size, and deductions.

Reporting Changes: Client responsibilities for reporting changes in circumstances that could affect eligibility or benefit levels.

Employment & Training (STEP): Rules for the SNAP Training and Employment Program (STEP), a voluntary program for SNAP recipients seeking employment and training services.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) (Cash Assistance): This program provides financial assistance and case management to low-income families with minor children. The rules cover:

Eligibility for TANF: Including dependent child requirements, household composition, and income/resource limits (generally lower than SNAP, around 38% of the Federal Poverty Level).

JOBS Program: Detailed rules for the Job Opportunity and Basic Skills (JOBS) program, which provides employment and training services to TANF recipients, including work experience, subsidized employment (JOBS Plus), job search, education, and support services like transportation and childcare.

Time Limits: Rules related to the federal and state time limits for receiving TANF cash assistance.

Sanctions and Good Cause: Regulations for situations where a client does not comply with program requirements.

Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) (Child Care Subsidy): This program helps low-income families with the cost of childcare to support employment or education. The rules address:

Eligibility: Income limits and requirements for families needing childcare for work or school.

Co-payments: How a family's co-pay is determined based on their income.

Provider Payments: Rules for direct payments to chosen childcare providers.

Refugee Programs: Provides cash assistance, medical assistance, and employment services to single adults and childless couples who are refugees, particularly in their initial months after arrival or status grant.

Temporary Assistance for Domestic Violence Survivors (TA-DVS): Offers safety planning support and temporary financial help for families at risk due to domestic violence. Eligibility is often based on current or future risk.

General Administrative and Procedural Rules: Across all programs, Chapter 461 also includes:

General Definitions (Division 1): Essential terms used throughout the chapter.

Rights and Responsibilities (Division 105): Outlines client rights and their responsibilities (e.g., reporting changes).

Hearings (Division 25): Procedures for clients to appeal decisions made by the Department.

Application, Redetermination, and Verification (Division 115): General processes for applying, renewing benefits, and verifying information.

Financial Eligibility: Detailed rules on how various types of income and assets are counted or excluded.

Benefit Issuance: How benefits are issued (e.g., through Oregon Trail Card for SNAP).

Overpayments and Liens: Rules for handling benefit overpayments and potential liens.

In essence, OAR Chapter 461 serves as the foundational legal document for the Oregon Department of Human Services' Self-Sufficiency Programs, ensuring consistent and equitable administration of vital assistance and support services to thousands of Oregonians.

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