(a) (1) To the extent permitted under federal law, an individual shall have the option to complete an application or recertification interview and provide the required client signature by telephone.

(2) To fulfill the requirements of paragraph (1), counties may implement any method of electronic signature, including telephonic signature, in compliance with state and federal program requirements, that is supported by county business practices and available technology.

(3) Counties currently using the Consortium IV (C-IV) or LEADER Replacement System (LRS) of the Statewide Automated Welfare System (SAWS) shall comply with this subdivision beginning on or before January 1, 2023, and counties currently using the CalWORKs Information Network (CalWIN) system of SAWS shall comply with this section beginning on or before January 1, 2024.

(b) (1) The department, in consultation with counties, representatives of the statewide automated welfare system consortia, recognized exclusive representatives of eligibility workers, and advocates for CalFresh participants shall develop recommendations to implement a fully telephone-based service model statewide, including, but not limited to, the ability to complete the application, semi-annual report and recertification processes by telephone in all counties. The recommendations shall assess implementation of a telephone-based service model statewide in addition to, not in place of, existing options to complete the application, semi-annual report, and recertification for CalFresh in person, by mail, or online.

(2) The recommendations shall be provided to the Legislature during the 2022-23 budget hearings.

(3) The fully telephone-based service model assessed pursuant to subdivision (b) shall, to the extent permitted under federal law, satisfy both of the following criteria:

(A) Use simple, user-friendly language and instructions for CalFresh applicants, participants, eligibility workers, and application assisters.

(B) Provide service and assistance to applicants and participants in a manner that is accessible to individuals with disabilities and those who have limited English proficiency as required by applicable state and federal laws.

(Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 85, Sec. 78. (AB 135) Effective July 16, 2021.)