Acceptance of Assignment to Job Search, Training and Work Programs. A person for whom the job search, training and work programs established under Section 9-6 of Article IX are applicable must accept assignment to such programs. In conducting job search programs, the Illinois Department and the local governmental unit shall by rule specify a reasonable minimum number of employer contacts, and methods of documentation, to be made by program participants each month and shall determine, pursuant to rules and regulations, sanctions for persons failing to comply with the requirements under Section 9-6. However, no participant shall be sanctioned for failure to satisfy job search requirements prior to a full assessment of his job readiness and employability. No participant shall be sanctioned for failure to satisfy the minimum number of employer contacts if he has made a good faith effort to comply. The Illinois Department and local governmental units shall provide payment for transportation and other necessary expenses to comply with the requirements of such programs, as defined by rule. Sanctions shall not apply to participants who are not provided with such payments. Such payments to participants shall be provided in advance of participant program compliance by the Illinois Department and may be provided in advance of such compliance by the local governmental unit. Sanctions may include the loss of eligibility to receive aid under this Article for a period of time of up to 3 months.