Navigating the waters to receive public assistance in Pennsylvania could get a little rougher as the road to welfare reform in the state becomes a little clearer. The Pennsylvania House overwhelmingly approved legislation that would introduce drug testing in order to receive welfare benefits. The state House voted 164-23 in favor of the bill.

More specifically, the bill would require drug testing for welfare applicants on probation or parole for drug offenses or have a conviction for those offenses within the last five years. The bill also includes random drug testing for welfare recipients with drug offenses to be conducted every six months. Anyone who fails a first test would be permitted to receive benefits provided they agree to treatment; however, a second positive test would result in no assistance for a year.

In separate legislation, the state House also approved, 159-29, regulations that would require anyone transitioning off of public assistance to repay special funds if they do not stay employed for 18 months. Currently, additional funds are provided as grants for items such as uniforms, tools, or child care for those entering the workforce. Instead of being grants, the legislation would make those funds loans that would be forgiven at the end of 18 months of employment.

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