CalWORKs eligibility: drug testing.

Existing law requires each county to provide cash assistance and other social services to needy families through the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program, using federal Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program, state, and county funds. Under existing law, the county is required to annually redetermine eligibility for CalWORKs benefits. This bill would require a recipient of CalWORKs aid to undergo drug testing on a random selection basis, as a condition of continued eligibility. The bill would specify those substances for which drug testing would be conducted. The bill would require a recipient who fails a random drug test to successfully complete a one-year drug treatment program, as specified. The bill would discontinue the individual's aid under the CalWORKs program upon failure of the individual to successfully complete the required drug treatment program. The bill would require the department to seek federal approvals necessary for the implementation of this bill. Because counties administer the CalWORKs program, by increasing county duties, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to these statutory provisions.