MO HB624

Reduces the lifetime limit for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits from 60 months to 30 months, effective January 1, 2016

Creates a cash diversion program offering lump-sum grants (up to three times the family size allowance) for short-term emergencies in lieu of enrolling in monthly cash assistance, available once per 12-month period and limited to five times in a lifetime

Good cause for cash diversion includes involuntary job loss, catastrophic illness or accident of a family member, domestic violence, or other emergencies that prevent an employed family member from meeting basic family needs

Requires the department to develop a standardized orientation program for TANF applicants covering program rules, work activity resources, and consequences for non-compliance

Applicants must sign a "personal responsibility plan" specifying their work activities before receiving benefits, unless exempt from work requirements