Bill to drug test for public assistance blocked by panel

Credit: BOB BROWN/TIMES-DISPATCH

Del. Richard P. Bell, R-Staunton, wants social services departments to screen people receiving Virginia Initiative for Employment not Welfare benefits.

By: Olympia Meola | Richmond Times-Dispatch
Published: February 06, 2012

A push to drug screen people receiving certain public assistance was blocked this morning by a House money panel.

The measure was carried over to next year’s General Assembly session to allow more time to study the potential costs — pegged at $1.3 million out of the general fund in the first year and about $1 million annually after that.

House Bill 73, sponsored by Del. Richard P. Bell, R-Staunton, would require local social services departments to screen people receiving Virginia Initiative for Employment not Welfare (VIEW) benefits to determine if there’s reason to believe the person is using illegal substances.

If so, a formal test would be done, which could include a drug test. It’s unclear what the “screening” would entail.

Anyone who tests positive or refuses to participate “without good cause” would not be able to receive payments unless the person enters into a drug treatment program. The person would have an opportunity to reapply.

Before a House Appropriations subcommittee this morning, Bell questioned the fiscal impact calculated by the Department of Planning and Budget, which estimates about $345 a drug test — or more if there is a dispute. A representative with the state Department of Social Services told the panel he agrees with the estimate.

Bell said the $345 test cost “seems very high compared to what I’ve heard it can be done” for in the private sector.

Del. John M. O’Bannon III, R-Henrico, noted that bill was debated in the House Health, Welfare and Institutions committee and reported out, but was sent to the House Appropriations Committee because of the potential price tag.

O’Bannon suggested carrying it over a year so lawmakers can get a better idea of what it would cost.

Similar legislation passed last week in Senate Rehabilitation and Social Services Committee and was referred to the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.

Bill to drug test for public assistance blocked by panel

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