Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that requires drug testing for welfare recipients.

Highlights:

• Requires an individual applying for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) to be drug tested if “reasonable suspicion” exists that the applicant is engaged in the use of a controlled substance, at the expense of the individual (Sec. 1).

• Requires the individual to be reimbursed for the cost of the drug test if the individual tests negative for drugs (Sec. 1). 

• Prohibits an individual who tests positive for drugs from receiving TANF benefits for 1 year (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes an individual who tests positive for drugs to reapply for TANF benefits after 6 months if the applicant has successfully completed a drug treatment program (Sec. 1).

• Prohibits an individual who tests positive for drugs on a second drug test from receiving TANF benefits for 3 years (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes a designated individual to receive TANF benefits for a child if the child’s parent is ineligible for the benefits due to the provisions of this bill (Sec. 1).

• Requires both parents in a two-parent family to comply with drug testing requirements (Sec. 1). 

Full Bill Text