Another significant piece of legislation was perfected this week. House members gave overwhelming bi-partisan support to a bill that would require our Department of Social Services to implement a drug testing program for welfare recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits when the department has a reasonable suspicion of drug use. HB73 is very similar to a bill passed in the House last year and is gaining momentum. TANF was created to provide needy families with cash assistance while attempting to find future employment as part of the welfare to work concept passed into federal law in 1997. In Missouri, there are approximately 35,000 families or 85,000 people that receive TANF benefits each month.
While TANF is meant to help families in times of need, it is certainly not meant to subsidize illegal or debilitating activity. We want to extend a helping hand to those who are seriously trying to help themselves but we cannot allow taxpayer money to be used to support drug use. Considering the fact that many companies require drug testing before being hired, it makes even more sense that we ensure our TANF recipients are drug free as well.
A major concern that surfaced in the debate was how this law could affect children and other family members. While we believe that stripping benefits from someone who tests positive for illegal drug use is appropriate, we want to ensure that innocent children are not victimized by the poor choices of their parents. This legislation allows for other members of the household to continue receiving TANF benefits through a third party vendor, a provision that will protect children or other dependents.
Also this week, House Speaker Steve Tilley formed two new special committees to address issues that are important to the people of Missouri. The House Special Standing Committee on Renewable Energy will be responsible for addressing legislation involving on-site energy production, conservation issues and the implementation of Proposition C. Prop. C, which was passed by voters in 2008, requires Ameren and other investor owned utilities to start buying at least 2% of their energy portfolio from renewable energy sources this year. By 2021 the percentage rises to 15%. There is currently disagreement on how and from where utilities buy wind and solar power. These issues are extremely significant to Northwest Missouri as negotiations with wind companies continue. The debate about how to produce green energy and promote economic growth while keeping our energy rates down will be of significant interest this session.
The other committee formed is The House Special Standing Committee on Disability Services, which will review bills on a wide range of subjects, from mental illness to developmental disabilities. The committee also will look at the Department of Mental Health’s proposal to expand mental health First Aid in Missouri.
If you have questions, you may reach me at my Capitol number 573-751-9465, at the local district number, 660-582-4014, by email at mike.thomson@house.mo.gov or by mail at Room 401B State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101
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