OH HB298

Amends unemployment benefits law to require applicants to disclose whether they were separated from employment due to unlawful use of controlled substances and requires drug testing if director suspects unlawful drug use.

Individuals who fail or refuse required drug tests are disqualified from unemployment benefits for the duration of their unemployment.

Establishes a two-year Ohio Works First drug testing pilot program in three volunteer counties (one rural, one suburban, one urban) that assesses adult assistance group members for chemical dependency and requires drug testing.

Individuals in the pilot program who fail drug tests or refuse testing have their cash assistance provided through a protective payee for one year; they may request restoration after six months if they complete treatment and pass a subsequent drug test.

Appropriates $100,000 annually for fiscal years 2016-2017 to fund drug treatment services for pilot program participants.