CalWORKs.

Existing federal law provides for allocation of federal funds through the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant program to eligible states. Existing law provides for the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program under which, through a combination of state and county funds and federal funds received through the TANF program, each county provides cash assistance and other benefits to qualified low-income families. Existing law provides that a parent or caretaker relative shall not be eligible for CalWORKs aid when he or she has received aid for a cumulative total of 48 months. This bill would, instead, provide that an assistance unit shall not be eligible for aid under CalWORKs when any member of the assistance unit has received aid for a cumulative total of 48 months. This bill would provide for continued aid after the 48-month time limit for a child who is a member of an assistance unit that no longer qualifies for aid, if the child's parent or caretaker relative complies with applicable work requirements, as specified. This bill would also make various conforming changes. Because counties determine eligibility for the CalWORKs program, by increasing county duties, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to these statutory provisions.