HB3 Summary

• Requires the Department of Human Resources to implement a drug screening program for SNAP applicants when there is reasonable suspicion of illegal substance use, including applicants with drug convictions within five years or prior positive drug screenings.

• An applicant who tests positive for drugs without a valid prescription receives a warning on first offense; a second positive test results in one-year ineligibility; a third positive test results in permanent ineligibility for SNAP benefits.

• Department pays for initial drug screenings; applicants pay for subsequent screenings but receive reimbursement if they test negative.

• If a parent is denied benefits due to a failed drug screening, a protective payee (preferably an immediate family member approved by the department) may be designated to receive benefits on behalf of dependent children or other family members.

• Applicants must receive notice of the drug screening policy and sign a written acknowledgment; refusal or unreasonable delay of screening results in ineligibility for benefits.