(a) The department shall, not later than July 1, 2000, create and implement a simplified application package for children, families, and adults applying for Medi-Cal benefits. This simplified application package shall include a simplified supplemental resource form.
(b) In developing the application package described in subdivision (a), the department shall seek input from persons with expertise, including beneficiary representatives, counties, and beneficiaries.
(c) The department shall allow an applicant to apply for benefits by mailing in the simplified application package.
(d) The simplified application package shall utilize at a minimum, all of the following documentation standards:
(1) Proof of income shall be documented by the most recent paystub or a copy of the last year’s federal income tax return.
(2) Self-declaration of pregnancy.
(3) A simplified supplemental resource form, if applicable.
(e) The department shall not require an applicant who submits a simplified application pursuant to this section to complete a face-to-face interview, except for good cause, a suspicion of fraud, or in order to complete the application process. A county shall conduct random monitoring of the mail-in application process to ensure appropriate enrollment. Every application package shall contain a notification of the applicant’s right to complete a face-to-face interview.
(f) The department shall implement this section only to the extent that its provisions are not in violation of the requirements of federal law, and only to the extent that federal financial participation is available.
(g) Notwithstanding Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the department shall implement this section by means of all county letters or similar instructions without taking regulatory action. Thereafter, the department shall adopt regulations in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.
(Amended by Stats. 2003, 1st Ex. Sess., Ch. 9, Sec. 5. Effective May 5, 2003.)