Colorado Legislative Council Staff

NO FISCAL IMPACT


Drafting Number:

Prime Sponsor(s):

LLS 99-0116

Rep. Chavez

Sen. Reeves

Date:

Bill Status:

Fiscal Analyst:

January 8, 1999

House HEWI

Janis Baron (303-866-3523)

 

TITLE:            CONCERNING APPEALS OF DISPUTED INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY CONTRACTS UNDER THE COLORADO WORKS PROGRAM.



Summary of Legislation


            The bill provides that a participant in the Colorado Works Program who refuses to sign an individual responsibility contract (IRC) and who demonstrates good cause as determined by county policy, may request an administrative review. Additionally, the bill states that good cause does not exempt an individual from work or time limits. The bill is effective upon signature of the Governor.


            The Department of Human Services (DHS) indicates that it cannot estimate the number of individuals that might contest IRCs as unreasonable. Although the bill authorizes an appeals process, it does not provide an incentive to appeal — the participant's "clock" continues to run, and he or she must be engaged in work after 24 months of receiving cash assistance through Temporary Aid to Needy Families. DHS further indicates that, in general, counties are negotiating good contracts with their Colorado Works Program participants. The fiscal note assumes that the number of participants requesting an administrative review will be limited and accommodated through existing appropriations. Therefore, the bill is assessed as having no fiscal impact.



Departments Contacted


            Human Services