Confidentiality & Personal Identifiable Information (PII) Overview

In accordance with Welfare and Institutions Code (W&I) Section 10850 and 45 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Section 205.50(a), confidentiality regulations were created to protect applicants and recipients against identification, exploitation or embarrassment that could result from the release of information identifying them as having applied for or having received public assistance. They also outline under what circumstances and to whom such information may be released.

These regulations pertain to all records, papers, files and communications pertaining to Social Services Programs. These regulations bind public and private agencies with whom the County contracts to perform any part of the covered public social services programs.

References

The following are references to State policy surrounding confidentiality:

  • Manual of Policy and Procedures (MMP) 19-002 - 19-007,
  • CalFresh Manual 63-201.2, and
  • Title 22 of Administrative Code.

Confidential Information

Names, addresses and all other information concerning the circumstances of any individual for whom or about whom information is obtained is confidential and shall be safeguarded. This is true of all information whether written or oral.

No disclosure of any information, obtained by a representative, agent or employee of the Social Services Agency (County Welfare Department), in the course of discharging his or her duties, shall be made, directly or indirectly, other than in the administration of public social service programs.

Disclosure of information which identifies by name or address any applicant or recipient of public social services to federal, state or local legislative bodies and their committees without such applicant or recipient’s consent is prohibited. Such bodies include the United States Congress, the California State Senate and Assembly, City Councils and County Boards of Supervisors.

Both the release and possession of confidential information in violation of the rules of this division are misdemeanors.

Related Topics

DEBS & DFCS: CalFresh Disclosure of Case Information