All active cases on Lycoming County’s direct relief rolls are being re-investigated as part of a statewide effort to place more people in jobs; it was disclosed last night by Herbert H. Ertel, executive director.

Started on a small scale about six weeks ago, the check to definitely re-establish eligibility for public assistance did not get fully underway until early this month. It will be completed in about a month, Mr. Ertel predicted.

Although the caseload is regularly checked on average of every month, the current investigation is more thorough and is expected to eliminate many ineligibles. According to W.E. Solenberger, state research statistician.
“This is the season when employment generally picks up, and more jobs are available. The re-investigation is to see that every person who has a chance takes a job.”

As each case is checked, Mr. Ertel revealed, 21 years of age and older who participate in the grant are required to sign the new $6,000 liability bond, which replaces the $500 bond required so the state could regain relief money illegally or by fraud. All new applicants for assistance also must sign the bond.

A series of amendments changing the new bond by eliminating the controversial phases is now before the state legislature.