ATLANTA (CBS ATLANTA) -
State Representative Jason Spencer (R-Woodbine) said he plans to introduce legislation that would require applicants seeking cash assistance through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program to pass a drug test before receiving any public funds.
TANF is the monthly cash assistance program for low-income families with children under age 18.
Under Rep. Spencer's legislation, the Georgia Department of Human Services would be required to conduct drug tests on adult applicants for the federal TANF program. These applicants would be responsible for paying for their drug tests, but those who pass the test will be reimbursed by the state.
"Georgia taxpayers have a vested interest in making sure that their hard-earned tax dollars are not being used to subsidize drug addiction," said Rep. Spencer. "In these tough economic times, it is easy to understand that many deserving families need some temporary help until they can bounce back financially – that's why we have public assistance programs like TANF. This additional eligibility requirement will simply ensure that those funds are used for that intended purpose."
http://www.cbsatlanta.com/story/15952477/state-rep-to-introduce-legislation-requiring-drug-tests-for-tanf