TO:  Commissioners, TA/FS Directors, Staff Development Coordinators

FROM:	Patricia A. Stevens, Deputy Commissioner
	Division of Temporary Assistance

SUBJECT:	 Treasury Offset Program Fairness Letter

EFFECTIVE DATE:  August 1, 2003

CONTACT PERSON:  Eastern Regional Team at 1-800-343-8859, Ext 3-1469

This is to advise districts that the lawsuit involving the Treasury Offset Program (TOP) (Thompson v. Wing) is expected to be settled pending a hearing for class members. On or about July 31, 2003, a “Fairness Letter” will be sent to class members outlining the terms of the tentative settlement and advising them that they may contact plaintiffs’ attorneys or the court, should they have concerns. If you receive client calls resulting from this mailing, refer them to that provision of the letter.  No other action is required of your agency.  If local districts would like a copy of the “Fairness Letter” they may request one from the Eastern Regional Team at the above phone number.