10-144 C.M.R. Ch. 331; Public Assistance Manual Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) - Maximum Benefit and Standard of Need Chart

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10-144 C.M.R. Chapter 331; Public Assistance Manual Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Maximum Benefit and Standard of Need Chart

TANF Rule #125P – COLA Update

The Department proposes routine technical updates to 10-144 C.M.R. Ch. 331; Public Assistance Manual Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) consistent with legislative changes made to 22 M.R.S. § 3769-C(1)(D) made by P.L. 2023, Ch. 622, § 2.

The proposed rule change would update the Maximum Benefit and Standard of Need Chart. 22 M.R.S. § 3769-C(1)(D) requires that the Department increase the Appendix Chart, page 3, Standard of Need and Maximum Grant, each October based on the Cost-of-Living Increase used by the Social Security Administration for that year.

It is the intent of the Department that proposed change to this rule will be in effect as of October 1, 2025 consistent with SSA COLA increases, as required by statute. Retroactive rulemaking is permissible under 22 M.R.S. § 42(8)(A) as this update is necessary to comply with statutory requirements, provides a benefit to TANF recipients and does not adversely impact applicants, participants, beneficiaries, or providers.

STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 22 M.R.S. § 42(1) and (8); 3769-C(1)(D)

PUBLIC HEARING: No public hearing is scheduled.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Monday, October 6, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

Written public comments may be submitted via the link at https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/about/rulemaking.

AGENCY CONTACT PERSON:

Alexandria Lauritzen, TANF Program Manager

Department of Health and Human Services

Office for Family Independence

109 Capitol Street

Augusta, ME 04330-6841

Phone: (207) 215-7496/Fax: (207) 287-3455

TT Users Call Maine Relay – 711

Alexandria.Lauritzen@Maine.gov

Office: Office for Family Independence

Comment deadline:

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