FL H0575

Creates Drug Deterrence Pilot Program requiring drug testing of unemployment benefit claimants in Regional Workforce Boards 18 and 24, with implementation by October 1, 2010.

Establishes screening mechanism to identify likely illicit drug users and requires testing of those identified; individuals must agree to testing as condition of claiming or receiving benefits.

Disqualifies individuals who refuse testing or test positive for drugs, making them ineligible for benefits for up to 52 weeks and until earning 17 times their weekly benefit amount.

Requires specimen collection procedures with chain-of-custody documentation; positive results are self-authenticating and admissible in hearings, creating rebuttable presumption of drug use; individuals may request retesting by gas chromatography.

Mandates agency report to Governor and Legislature by January 1, 2012 on testing results, denials, costs, and savings; directs Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability to evaluate program cost-effectiveness; program expires June 30, 2012.