Loading chat...
GA HB772
Bill
Status
Passed
4/29/2014
Primary Sponsor
Greg Morris
Click for details
AI Summary
- Requires drug testing of food stamp and TANF applicants and recipients when there is reasonable suspicion of illegal drug use, based on factors such as demeanor, arrest records, missed appointments, or prior employment drug screening history
- Establishes escalating penalties for positive drug tests: 1-month ineligibility for a first offense, 3 months for a second, and 1 year for a third, with reinstatement contingent on testing negative in a retest
- Allows individuals denied benefits for one year to reapply after 6 months upon documented completion of a substance abuse treatment program, but limits this early reapplication option to one time only
- Requires electronic benefits transfer (EBT) cards for food stamps to include a photograph of one or more authorized household members, effective January 1, 2016
- Places drug testing costs on the individual tested, with applicants holding active Medicaid benefits paying a capped fee of no more than $17.00; exempts dependent children under 18, persons with physical or mental disabilities, and individuals residing in nursing homes or similar facilities
Legislative Description
Public assistance; drug testing for applicants for food stamps; require
Last Action
Effective Date
7/1/2014
Full Bill Text
No bill text available