Pennsylvania law outlines procedures for enforcing cooperation requirements in public assistance cases, including sanctions like termination or reduction of benefits if an applicant or recipient fails to cooperate without a reasonable excuse. The law specifies court and departmental roles in notifying individuals, imposing sanctions, and conducting hearings, with provisions for telephone testimony. It also clarifies that noncooperation findings do not impact support obligations.
If you fail to cooperate without a reasonable excuse, the court may order the department to impose sanctions such as terminating or reducing your medical assistance benefits and imposing protective payments for children.
Yes, you can request a hearing, which will be conducted according to Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure. The court or domestic relations section can also hold hearings or allow telephone testimony.
No, a noncooperation finding does not impact your duty to pay child support.
The department must implement the court’s order within ten days of receiving it.