Drug Testing Legislation Approved In KS Senate

The Kansas Senate has tentatively approved legislation requiring drug tests for some people seeking certain welfare benefits, after amending it to require the same scrutiny of legislators.

Wednesday night’s vote advanced the bill to final Senate action Thursday. Passage would send it to the House.

The bill would require the Department of Children and Family Services to screen applicants for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits for illegal drug use. Those identified with a suspicion of use would be subject to testing.

The state would provide drug treatment and job skills training to those who test positive.

Members of the Senate’s Democratic minority amended the bill during debate to include legislators, arguing it’s only fair to hold elected officials to the same scrutiny as individuals seeking government assistance.