SUBJECT:
TRACKING REQUESTS FOR POLICY INTERPRETATION
DISCUSSION:
This memorandum is to clarify current policy for submitting requests for interpretation of policy and to introduce new procedures for submitting and handling requests for interpretation of policy. Submit requests for interpretation of policy and/or procedures for the Food Stamp, Medicaid, and Cash Grant Programs from county staff to Central Office Program and Policy.- Effective immediately, take the following action to request an interpretation of policy. Follow normal supervisory channels within each county/city office to ask the question. Within the county/city supervisory channels the subsequent level of supervision may provide the interpretation of policy and/or procedures. If the question is not resolved, submit the IM-14 Request to FSD Program and Policy.
- St. Louis Region, Kansas City Region, and Greene County requests may be submitted to the Program and Policy Unit by the Supervisor III or higher.
- All other requests may be submitted by the County Manager.
- All requests for interpretation of policy and/procedures are to be submitted using the IM-14 REQUEST FOR INTERPRETATION OF POLICY. The IM-14 may be submitted as an Email attachment, or by mail using the paper form. Submit the IM-14 by mail only if there are documents that must be reviewed for the interpretation.
The IM-14 Request is found in Word Forms on the computer desktop. When the IM-14 is completed, Email to Martha.J.Bax@dss.mo.gov, or mail to FSD Program and Policy Unit, PO Box 2320, Jefferson City, MO 65102.
Requests for interpretation of policy and/or procedures received in an Outlook Email message format, will be assigned a clearance tracking number and will be processed in the same manner as an IM-14 Request. All requests will be tracked and monitored for timeliness.
Continue to contact the FAMIS Help Desk for assistance with FAMIS procedures.
The recent food stamp supervisor study completed by Rushmore Group, LLC, addressed requests for policy interpretation. Further enhancements to the IM-14 Request process are being discussed including posting generic questions and answers to an Intranet site.
NECESSARY ACTION:
- Review this memorandum with appropriate staff.
- Submit requests for policy/procedure interpretation on the IM-14 REQUEST FOR POLICY INTERPRETATION form through normal supervisory channels within each county/city office. Requests from St. Louis Region, Kansas City Region and Greene County may be submitted by the Supervisor III or higher. All other requests may be submitted by the County Manager
- Continue to contact the FAMIS Help Desk for questions regarding FAMIS procedures.