State Rep. David Day Votes in Support of Bill

 to Require Drug Testing for Welfare Recipients

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Welfare recipients who test positive for illegal drug use would lose their benefits under legislation supported by State Rep. David Day, R-Dixon. Day voted in favor of the bill, HB 1377, that received initial approval in the House on Thursday by a vote of 113-40.

“This bill is about protecting the people of Missouri by ensuring their tax dollars aren’t used to provide assistance to those who are using illegal drugs. It’s nothing but common sense. If people are using drugs, they shouldn’t receive government benefits,” said Day.

HB 1377 would require the Missouri Department of Social Services to develop a method to screen applicants for and recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program benefits for the illegal use of a controlled substance. The department would be required to drug test a recipient or applicant when there is reasonable cause to believe the individual is illegally using a controlled substance. Individuals who fail the test could then be declared ineligible for TANF benefits. During debate on the House floor, the bill was amended to include a provision that would require drug testing for all state elected officials as well.

When a person receiving assistance is found to be using illegal drugs, they will be given the opportunity to enter a drug rehab program.  If they choose to enter the program and complete it, and continue to remain drug free, their assistance will continue to be given to them.  Only if they refuse treatment or don’t complete the treatment program do they lose their assistance.

“We’re simply not going to subsidize drug users and this bill makes certain of that. How many Missourians have had to take a drug test to get or keep a job? It’s not something that’s an undue burden. It’s only fair that we also ask those who are receiving taxpayer money be held to the same standard,” said Day.

The bill requires another vote in the House before moving to the Senate for debate.