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Drug Testing for Welfare Recipients: New Rules for Benefit Access

This bill introduces mandatory drug testing for individuals seeking welfare, food, and housing assistance. Those who fail or refuse a drug test may lose their eligibility for these benefits for a specified period. The aim is to ensure that aid reaches those in need and is not misused for illegal substances.
Key points
Mandatory drug testing for adults applying for welfare (TANF), food (SNAP), and housing assistance.
Individuals with a drug-related arrest history in the past 5 years must pass a drug test.
Individuals without such a history must undergo substance abuse screening; if high risk is identified, a drug test is required.
A positive drug test result leads to benefit suspension for at least 12 months, until treatment completion or a negative test.
Testing and screening costs are covered by the state, not the applicant.
Refusal to undergo testing or screening results in denial of benefits.
Denial of benefits for one individual does not affect assistance for other family members.
States failing to implement these rules may face a 15% reduction in federal funding for these programs.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_3678
Sponsor: Rep. Rouzer, David [R-NC-7]
Process start date: 2021-06-01
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Drug Testing for Welfare Recipients Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_3678.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-06-01.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Mandatory drug testing for adults applying for welfare (TANF), food (SNAP), and housing assistance.
  • Individuals with a drug-related arrest history in the past 5 years must pass a drug test.
  • Individuals without such a history must undergo substance abuse screening; if high risk is identified, a drug test is required.
  • A positive drug test result leads to benefit suspension for at least 12 months, until treatment completion or a negative test.
  • Testing and screening costs are covered by the state, not the applicant.
  • Refusal to undergo testing or screening results in denial of benefits.
  • Denial of benefits for one individual does not affect assistance for other family members.
  • States failing to implement these rules may face a 15% reduction in federal funding for these programs.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Rouzer, David [R-NC-7].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Nutrition, Oversight, and Department Operations.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-28.

CATEGORIES

Benefits Courts and Law Family