Lawmaker wants drug testing for unemployment recipients | News

OKLAHOMA CITY – A state representative has filed a new bill that would require people filing for unemployment to be tested for illegal drugs. 

Rep. Dustin Roberts, R-Durant, filed House Bill 1045 Thursday which stated that individuals filing an initial claim for unemployment benefits would be drug tested.

The bill stated it would be up to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission to establish the drug testing program. 

“We successfully passed legislation last year to require that the Department of Human Services drug test some Temporary Assistance for Needy Families recipients,” Roberts said. “I think it is good policy and one we should use with any state-paid benefits that might be misused by an addict.”