The Florida Senate

414.20  Other support services.--Support services shall be provided, if resources permit, to assist participants in complying with work activity requirements outlined in s. 414.065. If resources do not permit the provision of needed support services, the department and the Department of Labor and Employment Security may prioritize or otherwise limit provision of support services. This section does not constitute an entitlement to support services. Lack of provision of support services may be considered as a factor in determining whether good cause exists for failing to comply with work activity requirements but does not automatically constitute good cause for failing to comply with work activity requirements, and does not affect any applicable time limit on the receipt of temporary cash assistance or the provision of services under this chapter. Support services shall include, but need not be limited to:

(1)  TRANSPORTATION.--Transportation expenses may be provided to any participant when the assistance is needed to comply with work activity requirements or employment requirements, including transportation to and from a child care provider. Payment may be made in cash or tokens in advance or through reimbursement paid against receipts or invoices. Support services funds may also be used to develop transportation resources to expand transportation options available to participants. These services may include cooperative arrangements with local transit authorities or school districts and small enterprise development.

(2)  ANCILLARY EXPENSES.--Ancillary expenses such as books, tools, clothing, fees, and costs necessary to comply with work activity requirements or employment requirements may be provided.

(3)  MEDICAL SERVICES.--A family that meets the eligibility requirements for Medicaid shall receive medical services under the Medicaid program.

(4)  PERSONAL AND FAMILY COUNSELING AND THERAPY.--Counseling may be provided to participants who have a personal or family problem or problems caused by substance abuse that is a barrier to compliance with work activity requirements or employment requirements. In providing these services, the department and the Department of Labor and Employment Security shall use services that are available in the community at no additional cost. If these services are not available, the department and the Department of Labor and Employment Security may use support services funds. Personal or family counseling not available through Medicaid may not be considered a medical service for purposes of the required statewide implementation plan or use of federal funds.

History.--s. 23, ch. 96-175; s. 17, ch. 97-173.