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Senate advances TANF drug-screening bill after heated debate
Summary
Lawmakers debated and advanced HB 155, which would require a screening questionnaire and targeted drug testing for participants in Utah’s Family Employment (TANF) program; supporters said it identifies and treats addiction, opponents warned of harm to children and constitutionality. The measure will go to third reading.
The Utah Senate on March 6 advanced House Bill 155, a bill that would require applicants or participants in the Family Employment (TANF) program to complete a screening questionnaire and, if a qualified reviewer finds reasonable likelihood of substance abuse, submit to a drug test and, if positive, engage in treatment.
Sponsor Senator Osman described the bill as a targeted, treatment-focused measure that does not immediately cut benefits. "The intent behind this bill is not to…
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