TANF-SUBSTANCE ABUSE TESTING

Amends the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that not later than 60 days after the effective date of this amendatory Act, the Department of Human Services shall, by emergency rule, establish a program of substance abuse testing as a condition of eligibility for benefits under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. Provides that the Department shall require applicants for TANF benefits to submit to substance abuse testing before a final determination of eligibility. Provides that an applicant shall be ineligible for TANF benefits if (i) the applicant tests positive for substance abuse or (ii) the applicant refuses to submit to substance abuse testing. Provides that if an applicant tests positive for substance abuse and agrees to participate in and complete a substance abuse treatment plan and meets all other eligibility requirements, the applicant shall remain eligible to receive benefits. Provides that failure to comply with a substance abuse assessment or treatment plan shall result in the applicant becoming ineligible for benefits. Provides that if an applicant tests negative for substance abuse and meets all the other eligibility requirements for TANF benefits, the cost of administering the substance abuse test to the applicant shall be deducted from the applicant's first benefits payment.