MN SF1738

Changes drug testing requirements from mandatory ("shall") to discretionary ("may") for applicants and recipients with prior drug convictions under MFIP and general assistance programs.

Removes automatic five-year benefit disqualification following a positive drug test result or conviction for another drug felony; makes these sanctions discretionary rather than required.

For MFIP recipients with felony drug convictions in the past ten years, first failed drug test results in a 30 percent reduction of their grant (after shelter and utility vendor payments), with job counselor required to meet face-to-face and explain appeal rights.

Second failed drug test results in permanent disqualification from MFIP cash and food assistance, though participants remain eligible for food stamps or food support; job counselor must identify alternative resources before disqualification.

Food stamp applicants and recipients with drug convictions may receive benefits if subject to random drug testing, with sanctions of 30 percent allotment reduction for first failure and permanent disqualification for second failure.