SCS/SB 502 - This act requires the Division of Family Services to operate a direct job referral program of AFDC or food stamp recipients to potential employers. An AFDC or food stamp recipient who is required to participate in a work activity and who is denied employment due to failing a controlled substance screening test must find employment within 30 days after such screening or face recalculation of their public assistance benefits. The recalculation may be reviewed by the Director of the Department if a sanction is imposed.

The Division will report on the activities of the direct job referrals program each January.

The Departments of Social Services, Economic Development, Elementary and Secondary Education, Higher Education and Labor and Industrial Relations are to collaborate on the development of a statewide workforce plan.

This act would also grant the Department of Social Services the authority to enact rules necessary to implement federal mandates related to welfare to work initiatives and time lines including temporary assistance for needy families if federal monetary sanctions for non-compliance would be imposed before May 16, 1997. The Department would have to inform the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules and the appropriate committees in the House and Senate of such rule changes.
CHERYL GRAZIER