Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant signed a welfare drug-testing bill on Monday, requiring those who test positive to get treatment in order to get cash.
He said it will help people who are "trapped in a dependency lifestyle." House Bill 49 will become law July 1.
When it takes effect, anyone who applies for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families will have to answer a questionnaire. If the answers show the possibility of substance abuse, the person will have to take a drug test. Anyone testing positive would have to receive treatment to receive cash assistance.
If the person tests positive for drugs after receiving treatment, the assistance would end.
"The TANF program is a safety net for families in need, and adding this screening process will aid adults who are trapped in a dependency lifestyle so they can better provide for their children," Bryant, a Republican, said in a news release. "This measure will help make a positive difference for families impacted by substance abuse."
The bill passed the House 74-46 on Jan. 15, with all Republicans who were present voting "yes" and most Democrats voting "no."Read the rest of the story HERE and watch a related video below:
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