reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-3 - Displaced Persons Committee › Section 40-3-3. - Duties.

§ 40-3-3. Duties.
It shall be the duty of the displaced persons committee to expedite the processing of applications for admission to the United States of America and to the state, and to promote the rehabilitation and readjustment of displaced persons entering Rhode Island pursuant to federal law; to stimulate the interest of the community in the rehabilitation problems of displaced persons; to aid in interpreting and publicizing the problems relating to displaced persons; to cooperate with all governmental and private agencies serving displaced persons, to the end that duplication of effort may be avoided; to provide information and advice to displaced persons; and to perform other duties as the committee may, from time to time, determine, with the approval of the governor, to be appropriate and advisable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1949, ch. 2399, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 40-6-3; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-4 - Town and City Directors › Section 40-4-1. - Designation of directors.

§ 40-4-1. Designation of directors.
The directors of public aid of the several cities and towns shall hereafter be known as “directors of public welfare,” and wherever in any general law, public law, or resolution of the general assembly, or in any document, record, instrument, or proceeding authorized by any law or resolution, unless the context or subject matter otherwise requires, the words “director of public aid” or the words “directors of public aid,” or any reference to the director of public aid appear, the words or reference shall be construed to mean “director of public welfare” or “directors of public welfare” as the case may be.
History of Section.
P.L. 1936, ch. 2312, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 67, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40-7-1; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-1. - Obligation of towns.

§ 40-5-1. Obligation of towns.
Every town shall be required to relieve and support all poor and indigent persons lawfully settled therein, whenever they shall stand in need of relief and support, and to afford temporary relief to other poor and indigent persons.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-1; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-2. - Oversight of poor by directors of public welfare.

§ 40-5-2. Oversight of poor by directors of public welfare.
The directors of public welfare shall have the care and oversight of all such poor and indigent persons settled in their respective towns.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-2; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-3. - Manner of support of poor.

§ 40-5-3. Manner of support of poor.
The directors of public welfare shall see that poor and indigent persons in their respective towns are suitably relieved, supported, and employed, either in the workhouse or in other tenements belonging to towns, or in such other way and manner as the inhabitants of the respective towns at any legal meeting shall direct, or otherwise at the discretion of the directors. They may also afford temporary relief to other poor and indigent persons at the cost of the town.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 3; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-3; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-4. - Manner of relief in Providence.

§ 40-5-4. Manner of relief in Providence.
The city council of the city of Providence may prescribe the mode in which, and extent to which, the director of public welfare of the city shall afford temporary relief to poor and indigent persons who are not supported and employed in the asylum, or other tenements belonging to or used by the city.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 4; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-4; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-10. - Complaint as to neglect of pauper.

§ 40-5-10. Complaint as to neglect of pauper.
Whenever any pauper shall not be suitably cared for by the town to which he or she is chargeable, any person, upon first issuing five (5) days’ notice to the state director of human services or directors of public welfare of the town of the situation of the pauper, and on continued neglect of the town, may complain in writing to the superior court, setting forth as nearly as may be the nature of the grievance complained of.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 18; C.P.A. 1905, § 1108; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 18; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 18; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 17; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 80; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-10; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970; P.L. 1990, ch. 442, § 13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-11. - Investigation of complaints.

§ 40-5-11. Investigation of complaints.
The superior court may, after ordering notice to the town of the pendency of the complaint, appoint a commission of not exceeding three (3) persons, who shall visit the pauper or paupers concerning whom the complaint is made and, upon hearing the allegations and evidence of the parties, report to the court, as soon as may be, whether or not the complaint is well founded.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 19; C.P.A. 1905, § 1109; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 19; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 19; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 18; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-11; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-12. - [Repealed.]

§ 40-5-12. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 24; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 24; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 24; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 19; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-12; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970; Repealed by P.L. 2004, ch. 201, § 3, effective July 1, 2004; P.L. 2004, ch. 350, § 3, effective July 1, 2004.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-13. - Obligation of kindred for support.

§ 40-5-13. Obligation of kindred for support.
(a)
The kindred of any poor person, if any he or she shall have in the line or degree of father or grandfather, mother or grandmother, children or grandchildren, by consanguinity, or children by adoption, living within this state and of sufficient ability, shall be holden to support the pauper in proportion to their ability.
(b)
The uncompensated costs of care provided by a licensed nursing facility to any person may be recovered by the nursing facility from any person who is obligated to provide support to that patient under subsection (a) hereof, to the extent that the individual so obligated received a transfer of any interests or assets from the patient receiving such care, which transfer resulted in a period of Medicaid ineligibility imposed pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 1396p(c), as amended from time to time, on a person whose assets have been transferred for less than fair market value.
Recourse hereunder shall be limited to the fair market value of the interests or assets transferred at the time of transfer. For the purposes of this section “the costs of care” shall mean the costs of providing care, including nursing care, personal care, meals, transportation and any other costs, charges, and expenses incurred by the facility. Costs of care shall not exceed the customary rate the nursing facility charges to a patient who pays for his or her care directly rather than through a governmental or other third party payor. Nothing contained in this section shall prohibit or otherwise diminish any other causes of action possessed by any such nursing facility. The death of the person receiving nursing facility care shall not nullify or otherwise affect the liability of the person or persons charged with the costs of care hereunder.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 5; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 5; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-13; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970; P.L. 2015, ch. 141, art. 5, § 7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-14. - Enforcement of support obligation of kindred.

§ 40-5-14. Enforcement of support obligation of kindred.
The district court at any session thereof in any county where any kindred shall reside, upon the petition of the director of public welfare of any town, or the department of human services of the state through its representative duly appointed for that purpose, who shall have been at any expense for the relief and support of any pauper, may on due hearing, either upon the appearance or default of the kindred, they being summoned as prescribed in § 40-5-15, assess and apportion such sum within the limitation of time prescribed by § 40-5-17 as the court shall judge reasonable therefor, upon such of the kindred as the court shall judge to be of sufficient ability, and according thereto, and may enforce payment thereof by warrant of distress.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 6; C.P.A. 1905, § 1216; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 6; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 6; P.L. 1930, ch. 1580, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 6; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 80; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-14; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970; P.L. 1990, ch. 492, § 13; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 125.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-15. - Citation and proceedings against kindred.

§ 40-5-15. Citation and proceedings against kindred.
The director of public welfare of any town, or the department of human services of the state through its representative duly appointed, shall apply to the clerk of the district court for, and the clerk shall thereupon issue, a citation substantially in the form of the citation prescribed in § 44-5-26; and the citation shall contain the name or names of the kindred, and the citation and petition shall in all respects follow the procedure, and be subject to the jurisdiction of the district courts as set forth in §§ 8-8-3 — 8-8-5.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 7; C.P.A. 1905, § 1224; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 7; P.L. 1930, ch. 1580, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 7; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 80; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-15; P.L. 1969, ch. 239, § 42; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-16. - Proceedings against kindred not named in citation.

§ 40-5-16. Proceedings against kindred not named in citation.
Upon suggestion made, other kindred of ability, not named in the citation, may be notified, and the process may be continued; and upon due notice, whether they appear or are defaulted, the court may proceed against them in the same manner as if they had been named in the citation.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 11; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 11; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 11; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 11; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-16; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-17. - Limitation of proceedings.

§ 40-5-17. Limitation of proceedings.
An assessment shall not extend to any expense for any relief afforded more than six (6) months previous to the filing of the petition.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 8; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 8; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 8; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-17; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-18. - Assessment of kindred for future support — Warrant for arrears.

§ 40-5-18. Assessment of kindred for future support — Warrant for arrears.
The court may further assess and apportion upon any kindred such weekly sums for the future as they shall judge sufficient for the support of the pauper, to be paid quarterly into the clerk’s office of the court, to the use of the director, until further order of the court; and upon application, from time to time, of the director, the clerk of the court shall issue and may renew a warrant of distress for the arrears of any preceding quarter.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 9; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 9; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-18; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-19. - Order as to residence of pauper.

§ 40-5-19. Order as to residence of pauper.
The court may further order with any kindred who may desire it, that the pauper shall live and be relieved, for such time with one and for such time with another, as they shall judge proper, having regard to the comfort of the pauper as well as to the convenience of the kindred.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 10; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 10; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 10; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-19; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-20. - Recovery of costs by respondent.

§ 40-5-20. Recovery of costs by respondent.
If the petition be not entered, or be discontinued or withdrawn, or adjudged groundless, the respondent shall recover costs.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 12; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 12; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 12; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 12; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-20; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5 - Support of the Needy › Section 40-5-21. - Alteration of orders and assessments.

§ 40-5-21. Alteration of orders and assessments.
Upon application of any party interested, the court may, from time to time, vary any order by it made in the premises, or alter any assessment or apportionment by it made as provided in this chapter, to meet a change of circumstances.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 79, § 13; G.L. 1909, ch. 93, § 13; G.L. 1923, ch. 105, § 13; G.L. 1938, ch. 69, § 13; G.L. 1956, § 40-8-21; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 125.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-1. - Short title.

§ 40-5.2-1. Short title.
This chapter is hereby entitled “The Rhode Island works program,” and is Rhode Island’s welfare to work program.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-2. - The Rhode Island works program — Statement of purpose.

§ 40-5.2-2. The Rhode Island works program — Statement of purpose.
(a)
The purpose of the Rhode Island works program is to help parents who are eligible for cash assistance to support their children by preparing for, accepting, and retaining employment. It is the intent of the Rhode Island general assembly that the Rhode Island works program shall provide employment and support services along with temporary cash assistance so that parents can participate in the workforce rather than depend on public assistance to support themselves and their children.
(b)
Under this law, parents are mandated to enter into an employment plan, as a condition of eligibility for cash assistance, and unless they are found to be temporarily exempt from the work requirements, they must participate in intensive employment services at the department of labor and training as the first step in their employment plan. Because it is believed that employment is the most effective anti-poverty measure, all activities and services provided through the Rhode Island works program are designed to promote economic independence through employment and the development of employment skills and to strengthen families through parental responsibility and short-term assistance.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-3. - Legislative intent.

§ 40-5.2-3. Legislative intent.
(a)
It is the intent of the general assembly:
(1)
To fundamentally change the public assistance program formerly known as the family independence program in order to provide temporary financial assistance to eligible families with children while requiring the entry or reentry of the adult members of the family into the workplace with necessary supports as quickly as possible; and
(2)
To follow the policies and guidance of the federal public assistance legislation as closely as possible; and
(3)
To promote efficiencies through interdepartmental cooperation, specifically with the department of human services, the single state agency responsible for administration and implementation of this chapter. This shall include developing and implementing child support payment and enforcement, the case-management system, payment of cash assistance, issuance of food stamps, childcare subsidies, and medical assistance to eligible children and families in need.
(b)
The department shall collaborate with community agencies and other state departments to achieve the goals of this chapter. Partners may include, but are not limited to, the:
(1)
Department of labor and training, which shall provide employment and training services in accordance with this chapter;
(2)
Department of elementary and secondary education, which provides adult education and literacy programs;
(3)
Community College of Rhode Island, which provides vocational training at the postsecondary level;
(4)
Rhode Island commerce corporation, which is responsible for expansion of job opportunities in the state for low-income families with children;
(5)
Department of labor and training, which is responsible for the planning and coordination of workforce development policy and strategies in the state’s employment, education, and economic development systems;
(6)
Department of children, youth and families, which administers the child welfare services, regulates child daycare providers, and is ultimately responsible for the guardianship of children at-risk;
(7)
Rhode Island housing and mortgage finance corporation, which is responsible for expanding housing opportunities for low-income families; and
(8)
Family court, which is responsible for enforcing the support obligations of absent parents and protecting those children whose health and well-being is at risk because of an absence of family resources.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-5. - Rhode Island works — Promotion of work.

§ 40-5.2-5. Rhode Island works — Promotion of work.
The department of human services and the department of labor and training shall promote work by:
(1)
Providing assessments, intensive employment services, support services, and transitional cash assistance with the expectation that participants in the works program move quickly towards employment.
(2)
Developing stronger employment skills that will lead to self-sufficiency to establish long-term attachment to the workforce.
(3)
Recognizing the equal responsibility of both parents to provide economic support for their children.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-6. - Goals.

§ 40-5.2-6. Goals.
The Rhode Island works program shall strive to:
(1)
Eliminate or reduce the harmful effects of poverty on families and children by fostering employment and opportunity as a means to economic independence;
(2)
Assist participants to gain employment as rapidly as possible, giving due consideration to individual circumstances, labor market conditions, the needs of the dependent children for continuing care and protection, and the ultimate goal of long-term economic independence;
(3)
Eliminate the stigma of welfare by promoting a philosophy and a perception that the purpose of welfare is to eliminate or reduce the harmful effects of poverty on families and children by promoting work opportunities for all Rhode Island residents;
(4)
Support and coordinate with activities that promote self-sufficiency and strengthen family life;
(5)
Provide a comprehensive support service package that includes: child support, medical assistance, food stamps, child care, transportation, and other support services necessary to promote economic independence;
(6)
Promote successful transition from public assistance to employment and reduce the likelihood that participants will need to return to cash assistance through the provision of job-readiness activities, employment-related skills training, and education activities concurrently with or as necessary, prior to employment or seeking employment, family support skills, and follow-up services for problem resolution and job advancement;
(7)
Develop partnerships through the joint efforts of the department of labor and training and the department of human services with employers to create job opportunities and meet the needs of both employers and participants;
(8)
Develop partnerships with the office of adult education to provide full-time intensive work-readiness services to participants with limited literacy and work experience as well as part-time adult education services that are accessible to working participants so they can increase their earning ability;
(9)
Provide a program where it is more advantageous to work than not to work by rewarding self-sufficiency; and
(10)
Implement a program that is clear, focused, and simple to administer.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-7. - Work participation rates.

§ 40-5.2-7. Work participation rates.
(a)
The director of the department of human services and the director of the department of labor and training, to the extent that federal/Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) funds are made available, shall commit their department resources and focused efforts to meet the federal TANF work participation rate requirements.
(b)
In the event that there are changes in the federal TANF program, the department of human services shall seek support through the general assembly to make all necessary changes and shall take all necessary steps to comply with the federal law.
(c)
The works program cash assistance program administered according to this chapter is designed to meet or exceed the minimum federal TANF required participation rate for all families.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-9. - The Rhode Island works program — General eligibility requirements.

§ 40-5.2-9. The Rhode Island works program — General eligibility requirements.
(a)
All families who wish to make application to the department of human services for assistance under this chapter shall have the opportunity to do so.
(b)
Cash assistance shall be provided to eligible needy families only with dependent children who meet all the requirements of this chapter.
(c)
Eligibility for benefits provided in accordance with this chapter is determined on a family or assistance unit basis.
(d)
The following persons shall be included in the assistance unit, unless the person receives state supplemental assistance or supplemental security benefits under Title XVI of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1381 et seq., if living in the same household with any dependent child: all minor blood-related, step, or adoptive brothers and sisters, and all natural, step, or adoptive parents of the children, including cohabitating adults who share a minor child.
(e)
A minor parent may be in the assistance unit that may also include all natural, step, or adoptive parents of the minor parent and all minor blood-related, step or adoptive brothers and sisters.
(f)
If the parents are not residing together, a child shall be considered residing with the parent who has physical custody of the child the majority of the time. If the child resides with the parents in their separate households equal time, the parent who applies for assistance for that child first in time shall be the eligible parent.
(g)
Each person in the assistance unit shall develop all potential sources of income for which the person may be eligible. Each person shall apply for the income, cooperate in applying for the income, and accept the income if eligible.
(h)
Eligibility for cash assistance exists if the assistance unit’s net income is less than the payment standard for the assistance group size.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-11. - Cash assistance.

§ 40-5.2-11. Cash assistance.
(a)
A family or assistance unit found by the department to meet the eligibility criteria set forth in this chapter shall be eligible to receive cash assistance as of the date a signed, written application, signed under a penalty of perjury, is received by the department.
(b)
The family members or assistance unit shall be eligible for cash assistance for so long as they continue to meet the eligibility criteria outlined in accordance with this chapter. Parents and adult non-parent caretaker relatives receiving cash assistance shall be eligible so long as they meet the terms and conditions of the work requirements of § 40-5.2-12. An adult caretaker relative shall be eligible for assistance as a member of the assistance unit so long as he or she meets all the eligibility requirements of this chapter.
(c)
The monthly amount of cash assistance shall be equal to the payment standard for the family minus the countable income of the family in that month. The department is authorized to reduce the amount of assistance in the month of application to reflect the number of the days between the first day of the month and the effective date of the application.
(d)
A decision on the application for assistance shall be made or rejected by the department no later than thirty (30) days following the date submitted and shall be effective as of the date of application.
(e)
The payment standard is equal to the sum of the following: four hundred twenty-five dollars ($425) (three hundred sixty dollars ($360) for a family residing in subsidized housing) for the first person; one hundred fifty-nine dollars ($159) for the second person; one hundred thirty-seven dollars ($137) for the third person; and one hundred four dollars ($104) for each additional person.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 13, § 6, effective July 6, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-13. - Income deeming.

§ 40-5.2-13. Income deeming.
Parent, stepparent, grandparent, and sponsor income deeming.
(a) Parents.
For purposes of determining eligibility for and the amount of cash assistance to which a family is entitled under this chapter, the income of a child shall include the income of his/her parent(s). For purposes of this section, the term “income” has the meaning prescribed in § 40-5.2-10(g).
(b) Stepparents.
For purposes of determining eligibility for and the amount of cash assistance to which a family is entitled under this chapter, the income of a child shall include the income of the child’s stepparent (if living in the same house as the child) minus the sum of: (1) The first ninety dollars ($90) of the stepparent’s earned income for the month; (2) The standard of need for a family of the same composition as the stepparent (but excluding any person included in the child’s family); (3) Amounts paid by the stepparent to individuals not living in the stepparent’s home and claimed by him or her as dependent for federal tax purposes; and (4) Alimony or child support payments made by the stepparent with respect to individuals not living in such household.
(c) Grandparents.
The income of a child whose parent is under the age of eighteen (18) shall include any income of the child’s grandparents, if the grandparents are living in the same home as the child and his or her parent, to the same extent that income of a stepparent is included under subsection (b).
(d) Sponsors.
Sponsor deeming with respect to eligible aliens who are applicants for cash assistance shall be applied in accordance with Section 421 of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (Pub. L. No. 104-193, PRWORA) [8 U.S.C. § 1631] and under rules and regulations to be promulgated by the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-14. - Reporting of income and resources by participants.

§ 40-5.2-14. Reporting of income and resources by participants.
All participants are responsible for reporting changes in income, resources, family composition or other factors that can affect the family’s eligibility or payment level within ten (10) days of the change in circumstances.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-15. - Reporting absence.

§ 40-5.2-15. Reporting absence.
Whenever adult family member(s) become aware that a minor child in their household has been or will be temporarily absent from the home, the adult family member(s) have the responsibility to report such absence of a minor child from the home by the end of the five-day (5) period that begins with the date that the adult family member(s) become aware that the minor child has been or will be absent from the home for a period of thirty (30) or more consecutive days.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-16. - Minimum payment.

§ 40-5.2-16. Minimum payment.
No payment of assistance under § 40-5.2-11(e) shall be made for any month if the amount of such payment would be less than ten dollars ($10.00), but a family with respect to whom a payment of assistance is denied solely by reason of this section shall otherwise be deemed to be a recipient of assistance under this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-17. - Assistance not assignable; exemption from process.

§ 40-5.2-17. Assistance not assignable; exemption from process.
Except as otherwise provided for herein, cash assistance shall not be transferable or assignable at law or in equity, and none of the money paid or payable under this chapter shall be subject to execution, levy, attachment, garnishment, or other legal process, or to the operation of any bankruptcy or insolvency law.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-18. - Up-front cash program.

§ 40-5.2-18. Up-front cash program.
The department has the authority under this chapter to develop a non-assistance up-front cash program for recipients in accordance with federal TANF guidelines.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-19. - Appropriate child care necessary for work requirement.

§ 40-5.2-19. Appropriate child care necessary for work requirement.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, no single parent, or both parents meeting all other program requirements, shall be required to work or participate in employment plan activities or rehabilitative plan activities to the extent that appropriate child care is necessary for the parent to do so and the department determines that appropriate child care is unavailable for fiscal or other reasons.
(a)
For purposes of this section, “appropriate child care” means child care that is provided by a person or organization qualified and authorized to provide care by the department of children, youth and families or such other lawful providers as determined by the department of children, youth and families. Child care shall be considered “necessary” under this section for any children below the age of thirteen (13), or any children age thirteen (13) years or older, who are under supervision of the family court or who require care because of a physical or mental impairment.
(b)
The department shall provide transportation support in either the form of a bus pass for use in traveling to work activities, training, or other plan-related needs, or in the form of an allowance for transportation costs necessary to comply with the employment plan as defined in department rules and regulations.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-21. - Eligibility for medical benefits.

§ 40-5.2-21. Eligibility for medical benefits.
(a)
Every member of any family/assistance unit eligible for cash assistance under this chapter shall be eligible for medical assistance through the RIte Care or RIte Share programs, as determined by the department, subject to the provisions of § 40-8-1(d) and provided, further, that eligibility for medical assistance, must qualify for federal financial participation pursuant to the provisions of Title XIX of the federal Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1396 et seq.
(b)
If a family becomes ineligible for cash assistance payments under this chapter as a result of excess earnings from employment, the family/assistance unit shall continue to be eligible for medical assistance through the RIte Care or RIte Share program for a period of twelve (12) months or until employer-paid family healthcare coverage begins, subject to the provisions of § 40-8-1(d), whichever occurs first; and provided, further, that those eligible for medical assistance must qualify for federal financial participation pursuant to the provisions of Title XIX of the federal Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1396 et seq.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1; P.L. 2020, ch. 79, art. 1, § 26.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-22. - Emergency expenses.

§ 40-5.2-22. Emergency expenses.
(a)
To the extent that the department has allocated resources for this purpose, the department is authorized to provide assistance to families receiving assistance in accordance with this chapter to meet emergency needs that cannot be met with the cash resources available to the family. The emergency assistance shall be limited to the lesser of actual cost or the sum of two hundred dollars ($200). Except as provided by the department by regulation, no expense shall be reimbursable unless the department has pre-approved the expenditure. Emergency assistance includes, but is not limited to, payment of moving expenses for families who are forced to move their place of residence and payments for emergency transportation needs used in connection with participation in any program approved under this chapter.
(b)
In the event of a catastrophe caused by fire, flood, lightning, severe wind, or other act of nature, the department may establish by regulation the authorization of catastrophic assistance funds not subject to the limit of two hundred dollars ($200) specified in subsection (a). These regulations shall specify the criteria under which funds for shelter, clothing, or essential household equipment and furnishings may be authorized in the event of a catastrophe.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-23. - Post-employment incentive bonus.

§ 40-5.2-23. Post-employment incentive bonus.
The family/assistance unit may be eligible for an incentive bonus payment, if the participant is employed and is working at least thirty (30) hours per week or more for a single-parent family and thirty-five (35) hours per week for a two-parent family at the time of closure on cash assistance and remains employed and continues to work at least thirty (30) hours per week or thirty (35) hours per week or more, not to exceed a period of twelve (12) months in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-24. - Overpayment and underpayment of benefits.

§ 40-5.2-24. Overpayment and underpayment of benefits.
The department shall promptly take all necessary steps to correct any overpayment or underpayment of cash assistance paid under this chapter, and, in the case of:
(1)
An overpayment to an individual who is a current recipient of cash assistance (including a recipient whose overpayment occurred during a prior period of ineligibility), recovery will be made by repayment by the individual or by reducing the amount of any future cash assistance payable to the family of which he or she is a member, except that the recovery shall not result in the reduction of cash assistance payable for any month, such that cash assistance, when added to its income, is less than ninety percent (90%) of the standard of assistance for a family/assistance unit with the same composition with no other income (and, in the case of an individual to whom no payment is made for a month solely by reason of recovery of any overpayment, the individual shall be deemed to be a recipient of cash assistance for that month);
(2)
An overpayment to any individual who is no longer receiving cash assistance under the plan, recovery shall be made by appropriate action by the department under federal and state law against the income or resources of the individual, the family, or the prior assistance unit; and
(3)
An underpayment, the corrective payment shall be disregarded in determining the income of the family, and shall be disregarded in determining its resources in the month the corrective payment is made and in the following month; except that no recovery need be attempted or carried out under subsection (2), other than in a case involving fraud on the part of the recipient where the cost of recovery would equal or exceed the amount of overpayment involved.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-25. - Hearings.

§ 40-5.2-25. Hearings.
Any applicant, recipient, or participant aggrieved because of a decision by the department, including but not limited to, a decision regarding eligibility for benefits, the amount of benefits, terms of an employment plan, or a delay in making a decision with respect to an application for assistance shall be entitled to an appeal. The department shall provide an applicant, recipient, or participant with written notice of a decision to deny benefits under this chapter and shall provide recipients written notice at least ten (10) days in advance of a decision to terminate or reduce benefits to the family/assistance unit. Notices shall be easy to understand and shall explain the reason for the department’s decision and cite the relevant section of the department’s regulations. The family may appeal the decision by filing a written request with the department within thirty (30) days of the date the notice was mailed. If the recipient files the request within ten (10) days of the date the notice was mailed, the recipient may receive benefits without reduction pending the outcome of the appeal.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-26. - Records as to assistance.

§ 40-5.2-26. Records as to assistance.
(a)
All records pertaining to the administration of public assistance pursuant to this chapter and chapter 8 of this title are hereby declared to constitute a confidential matter.
(b)
In furtherance thereof:
(1)
It shall be unlawful for any person to make use of, or cause to be used, any information contained in records for purposes not directly connected with administration thereof, except with the consent of the individual concerned.
(2)
The director of the department shall have the power to establish rules and regulations governing the custody, use, and preservation of the records, papers, files, and communications dealing with the administration of public assistance. The rules and regulations shall have the same force and effect as law.
(3)
The records shall be produced in response to subpoena duces tecum properly issued by any federal or state court; provided, however, that the purpose for which the subpoena is sought is directly connected with the administration of public assistance. No subpoena shall be issued by a court asking either for the records, or for persons having custody or access to the records, unless the litigation involved in matters is directly connected with the administration of public assistance.
(4)
Any person who by law is entitled to a list of individuals receiving any of the assistance as provided in this chapter shall not publish, or cause to be published, the list except by the express consent of the director of the department, or to make use of thereof for purposes not directly connected with the administration thereof.
(5)
Any person violating any of the provisions of this section, or the lawful rules and regulations made hereunder, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined not more than two hundred dollars ($200), or shall be imprisoned for not more than six (6) months, or both.
(6)
Nothing in this section shall be deemed to prohibit the director of the department, or his or her agents duly authorized for that purpose, from issuing any statistical material data, or publishing, or causing the data to be published whenever he or she shall deem it to be in the public interest.
(7)
The director of the department may inquire into the records of any state department or agency in the course of his or her administration of public assistance.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-28. - Rules and regulations.

§ 40-5.2-28. Rules and regulations.
The director of the department of human services shall, pursuant to chapter 35 of title 42, promulgate rules and regulations necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter. Any reference to the department’s rulemaking process is pursuant to this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-29. - Noncustodial parents — Employment obligations.

§ 40-5.2-29. Noncustodial parents — Employment obligations.
Any noncustodial parent who is required by order of the family court to pay support to any family receiving assistance of any kind under this chapter, and who is unemployed and, in whole or in part as a result of the unemployment, has failed to comply with all of the terms of the support order may, if permitted by a justice of the family court, purge his or her contempt by accepting employment approved by the court, paying wages no less than the state minimum wage and/or by participation on a full-time basis in a rapid job-placement program.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-30. - Fraudulently obtaining assistance.

§ 40-5.2-30. Fraudulently obtaining assistance.
Any person who, by any fraudulent device, obtains or attempts to obtain public assistance pursuant to this chapter to which he or she is not entitled, or who willfully fails to report income or resources as provided in this chapter, shall be guilty of larceny and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by imprisonment of not more than five (5) years and by a fine of not more than one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500), or both, if the value of the public assistance to which he or she is not entitled shall exceed five hundred dollars ($500); or by imprisonment by less than one year or by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500), or by both, if the value of the public assistance to which he or she is not entitled shall not exceed five hundred dollars ($500).
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-31. - Authorization to pay assistance.

§ 40-5.2-31. Authorization to pay assistance.
Authorization to pay all forms of assistance specified in this chapter shall be made by representatives of the department and the state controller is hereby authorized to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for payments upon receipt by him or her of proper vouchers approved by the department. Subject to any necessary federal approval, the department is authorized to make payments of cash assistance by check, direct deposit, electronic benefit transfer or other means designated by the department.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 40 - Human Services › Chapter 40-5.2 - The Rhode Island Works Program › Section 40-5.2-33. - Child clothing allowance.

§ 40-5.2-33. Child clothing allowance.
One month each year, each child who lives in a family receiving cash assistance under this chapter in that month shall be given a supplementary payment of no less than one hundred dollars ($100) for the purchase of clothing in accordance with Title IV-A of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 601 et seq.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 100, art. 16, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 162, art. 13, § 6, effective July 6, 2021.