Drug Screening for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Recipients in Utah

In Utah, all financial assistance applicants are required to take the Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory (SASSI) prior to issuance of benefits. It is a condition of eligibility to take the SASSI, but the results are not taken into consideration until after the financial benefits are issued. All customers who score a "high probability for a substance abuse disorder" on the SASSI are required to participate in a random drug screen after issuance of their first benefit. If a customer is positive, the results are confirmed by a laboratory. If confirmed positive, the customer must participate in mandatory weekly drug treatment for a minimum of 60 days in order to continue to be eligible for financial assistance. If a customer is on a prescription medication and provides proof of this, they can be exempt as a "false positive."

This resource from the Utah Department of Workforce Services includes an FAQ, business process documents, and the legislation on drug testing policies for TANF benefits.