CalWORKs.

Assembly Member Sharp-Collins proposes substantial changes to California's CalWORKs program through legislation that modifies income calculations, expands eligibility criteria, and enhances employment support services. The bill revises how parental unemployment is determined by eliminating the previous 100-hour work limit requirement, instead basing eligibility solely on whether families meet applicable income thresholds.

The legislation expands income exemptions for CalWORKs eligibility to include in-kind gifts and certain noncustodial parent income that are already exempt under the CalFresh program. For welfare-to-work activities, the bill specifies that self-employment hours must be calculated based on actual time spent on business activities, regardless of income earned. The measure also modifies restrictions on aid payments when caretaker relatives participate in strikes, limiting the prohibition to cases where federal rules require it.

Counties implementing expanded subsidized employment programs must now prioritize placements with employers that have labor agreements in place and avoid positions that would replace existing public employees. The Department of Social Services must consult labor unions, advocates, and individuals with program experience when determining funding allocations. Starting in 2025, the department's annual CalWORKs report will include detailed data on subsidized employment outcomes and employer subsidies. The bill also requires a feasibility study on further expanding the CalWORKs program, with findings to be reported to the Legislature.

While the legislation creates new state-mandated local responsibilities, it specifies that continuous appropriations from the General Fund cannot be used for implementation. Counties may seek reimbursement for additional costs through the Commission on State Mandates process.