CONTACT: Karen Smith

PHONE: (517) 373-7394

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: October 18, 2002

Engler Hails Federal Court's Decision Allowing Drug Testing of Welfare Recipients

Governor John Engler today hailed the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision lifting an injunction against drug testing public assistance recipients, as a condition of eligibility. The Governor called for testing welfare recipients for illicit drug use as a condition for Family Independence Program (FIP) eligibility in his 1999 State of the State address.

"I am extremely pleased that the court has acknowledged the right of the state to test welfare recipients for illicit drug use as a condition of receiving benefits," said Governor Engler. "We know that drugs are a significant barrier to employment, and testing and treatment for welfare recipients for drug use is consistent with our goal of helping them reach true self sufficiency."

Under this testing program, those who test positive for illicit drug use will be provided with appropriate treatment; only those who refuse to take the test or refuse treatment will be denied FIP benefits.

" I am pleased that the court has returned our ability to address this barrier to job placement and retention, " said Family Independence Agency Director Doug Howard. "This approach is the right thing to do to support our customers entering the workforce."