Section 441.9.8. Notice to suppliers of information.

When the department requests a person to supply information about that person, the department shall notify the person of how the information will be used, which persons outside the department might routinely be provided this information, which parts of the requested information are required and which are optional, and the consequences of a failure to provide the information requested.

       9.8(1) This notice may be given in these rules, on the written form used to collect the information, on a separate fact sheet or letter, in brochures, in formal agreements, in contracts, in handbooks, in manuals, verbally, or by other appropriate means.

       9.8(2) The notice shall generally be given at the first contact with the department and need not be repeated. Where appropriate, the notice may be given to a person’s legal or personal representative. Notice may be withheld in an emergency or where it would compromise the purpose of a department investigation.

       9.8(3) In general, the department requests information to determine eligibility and benefit levels for assistance, to provide appropriate services or treatment, and to perform regulatory and administrative functions. Information is routinely shared outside the department when required by rules or law. Consequences of failure to provide information include ineligibility for public assistance, denial of licensure or regulatory approval, or inadequate service provision.