Consistent with its commitment to protect and support victims of domestic violence, Pennsylvania adopted the Federal Family Violence Option (FVO), the FVO policies and procedures have been incorporated into this chapter in order to: 42 U.S.C. 602(a)(7) 55 Pa. Code § 108.1
identify victims of domestic violence;
refer them to counseling, shelter, or other appropriate services; and
waive TANF/CCIS program requirements, including but not limited to support cooperation, work, and time limits where these requirements make it more difficult for a family or household member to escape domestic violence; place a family or household member at risk of further domestic violence; or unfairly penalize a family or household member because of domestic violence. 55 Pa. Code § 187.27(a)
An individual receiving Diversion could apply for and may receive ongoing TANF benefits under the Family Violence Option.
This chapter also includes policies and procedures to protect the confidentiality of domestic violence victims, including the Family Violence Indicator (FVI), a file alert required by Federal law to prevent the release of the address of a victim of domestic violence when it would endanger the individual or the individual’s family. 55 Pa. Code § 108.14
Reissued September 18, 2012, replacing January 31, 2012