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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE: July 1, 1999

Governor Announces Five Pilot Sites For Welfare Client Drug Testing

Fulfilling what he called for in his 1999 State of the State address, Governor John Engler today announced the next step in welfare reform by targeting a significant barrier to work – illegal drug use.

The Governor said five pilot sites around the state will test Michigan welfare clients for illegal use of drugs. In accordance with recently enacted legislation, the Michigan Family Independence Agency (FIA) will require substance abuse testing as a condition for Family Independence Program (FIP) eligibility at the five sites.

"Drugs are a barrier to employment," Governor Engler said. "These pilots are consistent with our goal to help welfare recipients become truly independent from the welfare system. Those who test positive for illegal use of drugs will be provided with appropriate treatment; only those who refuse to take the test or refuse treatment will be denied FIP benefits. By helping clients overcome their drug problems, we’re giving them a chance for a much brighter future."

The first three pilots will begin October 1, 1999 in the dual county site of Alpena/Presque Isle, Berrien County and Wayne County’s Greenfield/Joy District. Two additional pilots will be launched in February of 2000 in Kent County and Wayne County’s Romulus District.

Legislative criteria for site selection included choosing urban, rural and Wayne County locations and consideration of the prevalence of drug testing by major employers in the communities, the availability of treatment, and communities’ willingness to participate in the pilots.

FIA Director Douglas Howard noted, "Many private employers now require drug tests as a condition of employment, and new state employees must test negative for illegal use of drugs prior to being hired. In order to become self-sufficient, welfare clients need jobs. Those who abuse drugs aren’t likely to be able to hold steady jobs, so we believe early identification and treatment of drug-using parents can go a long way toward strengthening Michigan families."

Director of the Michigan Department of Community Health James K. Haveman, Jr., whose agency is responsible for providing treatment at the pilot sites said, "The best thing we can do for our children is to help their parents break the destructive habit of drug abuse. Through treatment, we will change these families’ lives for the better."