LANSING (AP) -- Michigan says residents applying for welfare cash assistance benefits will participate in a program aimed at improving their job prospects.

The Michigan Department of Human Services announced Wednesday that the "Partnership. Accountability. Training. Hope." program, called PATH, will replace the "Jobs, Education and Training" program, known as JET, starting with the new year.

The new program includes a 21-day assessment period in which applicants work one-on-one with DHS and workforce development caseworkers to identify potential barriers to employment and connect the applicant to resources to help them get a job.

JET has been in place since 2007. The state says orientation periods were inconsistent, ranging from four hours to three days.

The state says it plans future efforts to enhance services for those in the welfare system.

(Copyright ©2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)