CHARLESTON, W.Va. — House Speaker Tim Armstead (R-Kanawha, 40) likes the version of the bill requiring state assistance recipients to be drug tested, if there is a “reasonable suspicion” of illegal drug use, that’s now moving in the House of Delegates.
“We’ve had a number of different versions of this bill over the years and this one, I think, really addresses some of the concerns that I and others had that it needs to really be centered on the people who we think have some other indication that they may be doing drugs,” Armstead said.
“Not everyone is someone that will be suspect in that sense.”
As proposed in HB 2021, “reasonable suspicion” could fall on someone convicted of a drug-related offense within the previous five years, other than simple possession of an illegal controlled substance, or a mother who delivers an infant addicted to certain controlled substances that are not legally prescribed.
Those applying for or receiving TANF, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, who fail drug tests will lose their benefits for two years. Drug tests will be required after that point for reapplications.
There is also a provision allowing individuals to reapply for benefits after six months if they complete a drug rehabilitation program.
The bill specifies that no children’s benefits will be affected if a parent fails a drug test.
According to the fiscal note, each drug test would cost approximately $75, adding up to an estimated cost of $3.3 million in the first year of implementation and $2.2 million in subsequent years.
The bill came out of the House Health and Human Resources Committee this week and next goes to the House Finance Committee.
Information from the National Conference of States indicated at least 12 states have passed legislation requiring drug testing or screenings for public assistance.
Armstead was a guest on Friday’s MetroNews “Talkline.”