Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes a program that tests for the presence of controlled substances in individuals requesting unemployment benefits.

Highlights:

• Requires the Department of Workforce Development to screen for the presence of controlled substances in an individual who is requesting unemployment benefits (Sec. 6).

• Requires an individual to submit to a drug test if a screening indicates the presence of controlled substances (Sec. 6).

• Specifies that an individual is ineligible for unemployment benefits for 52 weeks or until the individual qualifies for benefits in the next benefit year, whichever occurs later, when 1 or more of the following scenarios takes place (Sec. 6):
• The individual declines to submit to a test;
• The individual tests positively to 1 or more controlled substances without a valid prescription; or
• The individual tests positively to 1 or more controlled substances without being enrolled in a substance abuse treatment program.

• Authorizes an individual who tests positive for 1 or more controlled substances without a valid prescription to be eligible to receive unemployment benefits if the individual enrolls in a substance abuse treatment program (Sec. 6).

• Specifies that if a substance abuse treatment program requires additional tests after the initial test, then an individual can test positive for controlled substances at least 1 more time before being ineligible to receive unemployment benefits (Sec. 6).

• Appropriates $500,000 to the department to provide substance abuse treatment to individuals who request unemployment benefits (Secs. 1 & 2).

Full Bill Text