Governor Signs Bills Approving Suspicion-Based Drug-Testing for Welfare Recipients

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signed new legislation Friday to enact a drug-testing program for adult welfare recipients.

House Bill 4118 and Senate Bill 275 were among a number of bills approved by Snyder.

The one-year pilot program will be used in three counties in Michigan. Those counties have not yet been announced.

If drug use is suspected, welfare recipients or applicants are required to take a substance abuse test. Refusal to take the test results in benefits ineligibility for six months.

If a person tests positive for drugs they will be referred to a treatment program and required to submit periodic drug tests. Refusal to participate in the rehab program will result in a termination of welfare benefits. But benefits can be restored after a person submits a clean drug test.

In a press release, Govenor Synder said:

"We want to remove the barriers that are keeping people from getting good jobs, supporting their families and living independently.This pilot program is intended to help ensure recipients get the wrap-around services they need to overcome drug addiction and lead successful lives. We'll then have opportunity to assess effectiveness and outcomes."

[WZZM-13]