Located in:
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
States that include TANF in the Combined State Plan must outline how the State will meet the requirements of section 402 of the Social Security Act including how it will:
d. Take Such Reasonable Steps as the State Deems Necessary to Restrict the Use and Disclosure of Information About Individuals and Families Receiving Assistance Under the Program Attributable to Funds Provided by the Federal Government (section 402(a)(1)(a)(iv) of the Social Security Act)
Current Narrative:
Data on recipients is classified as private and may not be disclosed pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13. Access to Minnesota’s eligibility computer system (MAXIS) is defined by a security role that is attached to a worker’s ID, and access to information is defined and limited by worker job responsibilities. A personal logon ID cannot be issued until the worker completes a state-developed orientation course. The orientation includes a review of data privacy and ethics as they pertain to client information. All county, state and contracted agency staff working in the Minnesota Family Investment Program must complete annually two data privacy courses designed to increase compliance with data practices and security, and meet federal training requirements for all those with access to DHS information and networks. Mastery of these courses is now required prior to receiving access to DHS systems including the new eligibility system, MMIS, MAXIS and MEC2. In addition, printed reports distributed by the state are reviewed individually to ensure data provided to the requestor are appropriate for the recipient of the report.