All state agencies providing services through federal block grant programs shallinclude, as part of their proposals for federal block grant programs, assurances to guarantee equal access to program services and resources, including contracted services, and guarantee the public uniform rights to appeal and appeal procedures. It is the intent of the Legislature that services maintain a commitment to the efficient delivery of vital services to the most needy persons in the state and that any changes in eligibility criteria be identified in a comprehensive plan. The proposals for federal block grant programs shall specify a process to guarantee that each person seeking services shall:

1. Have the right to file formal application for services or resources upon request;

2. Be afforded an opportunity to have private and confidential interviews pertaining to the case;

3. Not be denied assistance on the basis of race, color, gender, creed, religion, age, political preference or physical affliction;

4. Receive timely approval or disapproval of the application; and

5. Receive written notification of appeal and appeal procedures, including notice that:

a.all aggrieved parties shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity for a fair hearing,

b.the applicant or the representative of the applicant shall have access to records relevant to the appeal process, and

c.the applicant shall have the right to a timely determination and prompt notice of hearing decisions.

Added by Laws 1986, c. 207, § 29, operative July 1, 1986.