Sen. Steve Gooch Co-Sponsored Legislation Promoting Responsible Welfare

Sen. Steve Gooch (R-Dahlonega) co-sponsored Senate Bill 292, legislation which would require mandatory drug testing for social service recipients.
Senate bill 292, known as the Social Responsibility and Accountability Act, would require recipients of Medicaid and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) welfare programs to undergo drug tests similar to the routine drug-screening measures set forth by the private sector.
To receive state welfare benefits, all applicants must submit to a detailed application process and drug-screening measures would serve as an additional eligibility requirement. In an effort to protect the privacy of welfare applicants, screening results would remain confidential to protect against the scrutiny of public opinion.
“During these challenging economic times, Georgians have a vested interest in how their hard-earned tax dollars are being spent,” said Senator Gooch. “Senate Bill 292 provides a new era of accountability and promotes fiscal responsibility at a time when we need it most.” “By conserving our resources and balancing our state budget, we are working to ensure a brighter future for all Georgians.”
As part of the bills’ provisions, if an applicant fails to comply with state-mandated drug testing or produces a positive result, the applicant will be disqualified from receiving state benefits for a specified period of time which will be determined by the Georgia Department of Human Services.
Recent studies have shown that individuals who engage in drug abuse are less likely to maintain employment, and as a result, remain on welfare-related programs for a longer period of time.

“Senate Bill 292 would provide financial support to families while also helping individuals who need drug rehabilitation,” said Senator Gooch. “In addition, this landmark legislation is aimed at encouraging these individuals to become active members of their communities by re-entering the workforce.”
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Sen. Steve Gooch represents the 51st Senate District which includes Dawson, Fannin, Gilmer, Lumpkin, Pickens, and Union counties and portions of Forsyth and White counties. He may be reached at 404.656.9221 or via e-mail at steve.gooch@senate.ga.gov.