GEORGIA CAN’T TIE FOOD STAMPS TO DRUG TESTS

Federal officials told Georgia lawmakers that the state could not implement a new law requiring drug tests for some food stamp applicants and recipients. The law, scheduled to go into effect on July 1, requires testing someone when state workers have a “reasonable suspicion” that the person is using drugs. But USDA policy “prohibits states from mandating drug testing of (food stamp) applicants and recipients.” In recent years, a number of states, including Georgia, have attempted to mandate drug testing for recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. But Georgia is the only state that extends the requirement to people seeking SNAP benefits.

 

Source:  AJC.com, 6/3/14, No Drug Tests