CDSS has clarified that temporary illness from pregnancy is good cause for non-participation in Welfare-to-Work. If a pregnant participant is unable to participate in Welfare-to-Work activities for at least half of her participation requirement in a month, that month does not count toward the 24 month time clock. If pregnancy significantly impairs a woman’s ability to participate in
Welfare-to-Work for at least 30 days, she can be exempt from Welfare-to-Work for disability.
CDSS has also reminded counties of the one-time young child exemption that allows an exemption for a parent or caretaker relative caring for a child under age 23 months to be exempt from Welfare-to-Work. In addition, a parent caring for a child under age six months can be exempt from Welfare-to-Work once and exempt for 12 weeks for subsequent children.
In addition, CDSS reminded counties that Civ. Code Section 43.3 and SB 252 allow a mother to breast feed her child in any public or private location, including a county welfare department office. ACIN I-38-15 (6/3/15).