(b) On or before January 1, 2027, the department shall develop protocols on handling cases in which applicants and recipients are past or present victims of abuse. The protocols shall define domestic abuse, and shall address training standards and curricula, individual case assessments, confidentiality procedures, notice procedures and counseling or other appropriate participation requirements as part of an overall plan to transition from welfare-to-work. The protocol shall specify how counties shall do the following:

1. (1) Identify applicants and recipients of assistance under this chapter who have been or are victims of abuse, including those who self-identify, while protecting confidentiality.
2. (2) Refer these individuals to supportive services.
3. (3) Waive program requirements, on a case-by-case basis, for so long as necessary, in accordance with Section 11495.15, as added by the act that added subdivision (e). Requirements that shall be waived, if eligible, include, but are not limited to, time limits on receipt of assistance, work requirements, educational requirements, paternity establishment and child support cooperation requirements.
4. (4) Issue an adequate written notice of action to each applicant or recipient of the determination about whether a waiver will be issued, and if a waiver is denied, the specific reasons for the denial.
5. (5) Issue timely and adequate notice of action when discontinuing a waiver that includes the specific reasons for termination.