Pilot Program Established for Drug-Using Welfare Recepients

Governor Rick Snyder has signed a bill into law creating a pilot program that could terminate state welfare assistance in certain situations for those who take illegal drugs. The governor says the one-year program is designed to get help to drug abusers who are on the welfare rolls. Three counties will be selected to participate. Under the measure, if a recpient or applicant suspected of being a drug abuser refuses to be tested, their assistance will be terminated for six months. If the applicant or recipient suspected of drug use tests positive, they’ll be referred to a treatment program. If they refuse to participate or refuse to submit to periodic tests, they will be terminated from welfare assistance. Benefits can be restored if recipients pass future tests.