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Michigan governor signs welfare drug-testing bill

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signed legislation that creates drug-testing requirements for adults on welfare who are suspected of using drugs.

By Amy R. Connolly
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signed legislation that requires welfare recipients and applicants to be drug tested if abuse is suspected. Here he is speaking at the third North American International Cyber Summit at Cobo Hall in Detroit on Nov. 17. Photo courtesy governor's office.
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signed legislation that requires welfare recipients and applicants to be drug tested if abuse is suspected. Here he is speaking at the third North American International Cyber Summit at Cobo Hall in Detroit on Nov. 17. Photo courtesy governor's office.

LANSING, Mich., Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signed a measure that establishes suspicion-based drug testing for adult welfare recipients and applicants.

Under the one-year pilot program, which will begin in three counties, those who are suspected of substance-abuse will be required to take a drug test. If the person refuses the test, benefits will be cut off for six months.

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Snyder said the program will only be used when there is a reasonable suspicion. If the welfare applicant or recipient tests positive for drugs, they will be referred to a treatment program. If the person refuses treatment, public assistance will be cut off.

"We want to remove the barriers that are keeping people from getting good jobs, supporting their families and living independently," Snyder said. "This pilot program is intended to help ensure recipients get the wrap-around services they need to overcome drug addiction and lead successful lives. We'll then have opportunity to assess effectiveness and outcomes."

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