(a) The department shall implement and maintain nonbiometric identity verification methods in the CalWORKs program. The methods approved by the department as of July 1, 2018, satisfy this requirement.

(b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), commencing July 1, 2021, for purposes of identity verification, a CalWORKs applicant or recipient may provide proof of identity via videoconferencing or any other electronic means that allows for a visual interaction between the applicant or recipient and county eligibility staff. Verification conducted in this manner shall satisfy any inperson identification requirement.

(Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 85, Sec. 24. (AB 135) Effective July 16, 2021.)