Vetoed by Governor Steve Bullock

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that requires applicants for state financial assistance to be screened and tested for drug use.

Highlights:

• Requires an individual applying for financial assistance to complete a written questionnaire to determine the likelihood of the applicant having a substance abuse disorder (Sec. 2).

• Authorizes the Department of Public Health and Human Services to refuse to process an application if the applicant has declined to complete the written questionnaire (Sec. 2).

• Requires an applicant to complete a drug test if the written questionnaire suggests they have a substance abuse disorder (Sec. 2).

• Prohibits an individual who refuses to undergo the drug test from reapplying for financial assistance for 90 days after their first refusal or for 1 year after any subsequent refusal within the same year (Sec. 2).

• Prohibits an individual who tests positive for a controlled substance to receive financial assistance unless the individual (Sec. 2):

• Participates in a substance abuse treatment program for at least 30 days;

• Agrees to subsequent drug tests during treatment; and

• Tests negative for controlled substance during treatment.

• Authorizes a third party to receive and administer benefits on behalf of a dependent child if the parent applying for financial assistance is determined to be ineligible because he or she fails to comply with the above requirements (Sec. 7).

Full Bill Text