AS of July 1, two bad laws took effect. It is important to know our rights:<

DWP or the ‘Diversionary Work Program only affects NEW applicants for MFIP. If you have been on MFIP in the past year, you cannot be put into DWP. Some people, by law, are exempt from DWP, including minor parents, anyone who is trying for a 60-month extension and anyone who ‘would not benefit from DWP.’ If you think you will ‘not benefit’ from DWP, tell your worker, “I will not benefit from DWP. Put me into regular MFIP.” They cannot force us into job search until we get child care.

Universal Participation: This will affect us at our recertification, or when we first apply for MFIP. It does NOT apply to anyone on their 5-year extension. People who used to be exempt from MFIP work requirements will now have to come up with an ‘employment plan.’ We have a right to decide what should be in our plans. We have the right to childcare. If your worker forces you to put something you can’t do in your employment plan, file an appeal and call Legal Aid at 612-827-3774 or 651-222-5863.

For more info, call the Welfare Rights Committee 612-822-8020. www.welfarerightsmn.org