OH HB704

Amends unemployment benefit eligibility to require applicants to disclose whether they were separated from employment due to unlawful use of controlled substances and to submit to drug testing when director has reasonable cause to suspect unlawful drug use.

Individuals who fail or refuse drug testing become disqualified from unemployment compensation benefits for the duration of their unemployment, with an exception for substances obtained by valid prescription.

Establishes a two-year Ohio Works First drug testing pilot program in three counties (one rural, one suburban, one urban) to assess adult assistance group members for chemical dependency and require drug testing when reasonable cause exists.

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

Appropriates $100,000 per fiscal year to the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services for drug treatment services under the pilot program.