The Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS) has reissued 11,162 notices to Family Independence Program (FIP) recipients who have reached their FIP cash assistance lifetime limits, in accordance with the ruling by U.S. District Judge Paul D. Borman on Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2011. The reissued notices cite the appropriate legal authority as well as more prominent language on the appeal process, as required in the ruling.

"We are moving forward with the welfare reform passed by the legislature," said Maura D. Corrigan, DHS director. "These notices, the fourth that have been sent to recipients affected, follow Judge Borman's directive."

The more restrictive lifetime limits on cash assistance became law on Oct. 1, 2011. Those affected by the limits received three notices, beginning on Aug. 9, and a minimum of three phone calls from a DHS social worker. In addition, DHS has staffed a call center for those affected by the lifetime limits to assist them with benefits ranging from job placement to rent assistance.