1. (1) As a condition of eligibility to receive Families First benefits, an individual must be either:

   1. (a) A citizen of the United States; or

   2. (b) An alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence or otherwise permanently residing in the United States under color of law as described in Section 1240-01-47-.12.

      1. 1. The United States is defined as the 50 states and the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands. In addition, nationals from American Samoa or Swain’s Island are considered US citizens for eligibility purposes.
      2. 2. An ineligible alien will be excluded from the Families First assistance group, but may receive a grant for children in his/her care if they are eligible.

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 4-5-201 et seq., 71-1-105, Public Acts of 1996, Chapter 950, and 45 C.F.R. 233.50. Administrative History: Original rule filed December 2, 1996; effective February 15, 1997.