Drug testing for welfare recipients passes Senate | News

ATLANTA -- The Senate has approved the House version of a measure that would require recipients of welfare benefits to submit to drug testing.

The bill passed 36-15 in the Senate with amendments. The House must approve those changes before its heads to Gov. Nathan Deal's desk for his signature.

Exemptions for mandatory drug testing will be made for individuals who are considered by the Department of Human Services to be significantly impaired due to a physical, mental or developmental disability. In addition, persons enrolled in a Medicaid enhanced primary care case management program will also be exempt from this requirement.

Screening results will remain confidential and exempt from public records law. It remains unclear exactly how much money a testing program would cost.