This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to extend the expiration date of the drug screening program for applicants of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program from December 31, 2026, to December 31, 2030. The bill outlines the definitions of key terms related to the program, including "applicant," "caseworker," and "drug screening," and establishes the responsibilities of the Department of Human Services in administering the program. It also details the conditions under which reasonable suspicion for drug testing arises, the process for handling positive drug test results, and the requirements for applicants to complete substance abuse treatment and job skills programs.

Additionally, the bill ensures that the eligibility of dependent children for TANF benefits is not affected by a parent's failure to pass a drug test, and it allows for the designation of a protective payee for benefits on behalf of the child. The bill mandates that the secretary of the Department of Human Services report annually on the program's status, including the number of applicants deemed ineligible due to positive drug tests and the costs associated with the program. Overall, the bill aims to continue the implementation of drug screening for TANF applicants while ensuring the protection of children's benefits and maintaining confidentiality of drug test results.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-3-6