LOCAL MI Gets Smart with Welfare Reform

from the Detroit News

Some welfare recipients suspected of illegal drug use could be tested under legislation approved in the Michigan House. The bill will go to the Senate for consideration when lawmakers return to the Capitol.

The bill would allow for drug testing of a family assistance recipient if a Department of Human Services employee has a reasonable suspicion the recipient has been using drugs. The bill calls for DHS to set up a pilot program to test the measure. Welfare recipients testing positive for drug use would be required to enter a treatment program. If they don't conform to the treatment program requirements, they eventually could lose some of their welfare benefits.