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From what I can tell of the dislocated/displaced worker question, the only help it provides is the ability to bypass the 1040A/1040EZ or federal means-tested benefits clause for auto 0 or simplified means test. I think if the family is making over $50k, it doesn't make any difference. I could be wrong ... like niikkiL, we haven't started working with this yet ... but that's my understanding of it.
If your family income is going to be measureably less than in 2008, you can try to get a professional judgment determination from the aid office - they may be willing to use your estimated 2009 income, rather than your 2008 income. There are no guarantees, but it's worth a try.
I can't imagine there are many aid offices that would ignore the step-parent info. This would be outside the intent of the law, so it wouldn't be policy.
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