MO SB725

Department of Social Services shall develop a program to screen and test work-eligible applicants and recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) when the department has reasonable cause to believe they engage in illegal use of controlled substances.

Individuals who test positive for unprescribed controlled substances shall be declared ineligible for TANF benefits for two years from the date of an administrative hearing decision, unless they successfully complete a substance abuse treatment program and test negative for illegal drugs during a six-month monitoring period.

Individuals shall continue receiving benefits while participating in the required treatment program, and the department may conduct random or periodic drug testing after the initial six-month period.

Other household members who are otherwise eligible shall continue receiving TANF benefits as protective or vendor payments to a third-party payee even if another household member is declared ineligible.

Department of Social Services must promulgate rules to implement the screening and testing provisions, subject to Chapter 536 rulemaking requirements.