KGWN –Cheyenne, WY– Scottsbluff, NE News,Weather, SportsLaw Makers Consider Making Welfare Applicants Take Drug Test

Law Makers Consider Making Welfare Applicants Take Drug Test

One bill being discussed at the 2012 Legislative Session is House Bill 82 which would require all welfare applicants to pass a drug test.

Nearly 350 men and women qualify for welfare in Wyoming.

Drug tests start at $15.  It's a price some worry welfare applicants won't be able to pay.  

The Wyoming Department of Family Services says the idea isn't new. Florida recently added the requirement and Colorado's Legislature is considering it.

Only new welfare applicants would have to take a drug test.  

If passed, House Bill 82 would make those testing positive for illegal drugs ineligible to receive welfare for one year. That time could be cut to six months for those who fail the test but get substance abuse treatment.