SB 79

Abstract

Amends the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that as a condition of initial eligibility for medical assistance benefits provided under the State's Medical Assistance program or, subject to federal approval, benefits provided under the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), an applicant must pass a drug screening. Provides that as a condition of continued eligibility for such benefits, a recipient must pass random drug screenings as prescribed by the Department of Human Services. Requires the Department to (i) provide notice of drug testing to each applicant at the time of application; (ii) advise each applicant, before the test is conducted, that the applicant may, but shall not be required to, advise the agent administering the test of any prescription or over-the-counter medication the applicant is taking; (iii) ensure each applicant being tested a reasonable degree of dignity while producing and submitting a sample for drug testing, consistent with the need of the State to ensure the reliability of the sample; (iii) provide any applicant who tests positive with a list of licensed substance abuse treatment providers; and other matters. Provides that an applicant who tests positive and is denied medical assistance benefits or SNAP benefits as a result may reapply for those benefits after 6 months if the applicant verifies the successful completion of a substance abuse treatment program. Exempts persons with children in the assistance unit, persons with disabilities, persons who are 65 year of age or older, or persons who reside at a facility licensed under the Nursing Home Care Act or the ID/DD Community Care Act from the drug testing requirements.