Drug Testing & Public Programs – What Are The Rules?

Over the past five years, we’ve seen a trend emerging when it comes to public assistance services – many states are proposing (or requiring) that applicants take drug tests in order for them to qualify for services. These proposals are not without controversy, and both courts and the federal government have struck down portions of some states’ proposals. Recently, we’ve seen Georgia withdraw a proposal to drug test applicants for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), food stamps (see Georgia backs down on law requiring drug tests for food stamp recipients). And, a federal district court struck down Florida . . .