MS HB86

Adult applicants for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits must complete a written screening questionnaire to determine likelihood of substance use disorder.

If screening indicates reasonable likelihood of drug misuse, the Department of Human Services must require a drug test at department expense; refusal results in benefit termination and 90-day (first offense) or 1-year (second offense within one year) reapplication ban.

Recipients who test positive for unlawful drug use receive a list of approved substance use disorder treatment providers and may continue benefits if they enter and complete a treatment plan, including 60 days of treatment and negative drug tests.

Declining treatment or failing to meet treatment requirements results in benefit termination with 90-day or 1-year reapplication ban depending on prior violations.

Amends Section 43-17-5 of Mississippi Code to add non-compliance with drug testing and substance use disorder treatment requirements as grounds for TANF benefit denial.