SB 74 Summary

• Denies TANF cash benefits to applicants convicted of felony drug possession unless they complete a substance abuse treatment program; applicants may reapply after 6 months if treatment is successfully completed, or after 1 year if not.

• Permanently denies TANF cash benefits to applicants with felony convictions for drug trafficking as defined in 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(2).

• Requires the Department of Human Services to screen all adult TANF applicants for illegal controlled substance use beginning November 1, 2012, using substance abuse screening methods; applicants found to be using controlled substances are denied benefits unless they submit proof of a negative drug test within 10 days.

• Allows applicants denied TANF benefits due to substance use to reapply after 1 year, or after 6 months if they complete a recommended substance abuse treatment program; applicants denied twice are ineligible for 3 years from the date of second denial.

• Effective date is July 1, 2015, with an emergency clause allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.