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HB 2958

Relating to the drug testing of certain persons seeking benefits under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Shelby Slawson

HB 2958 would require drug testing for TANF applicants and recipients in Texas, conditioning benefits on negative results or treatment participation.

Referred to Human Services
#drug&alcoholtesting(s0010) #health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #humanservices--directassistance(i0900) #marihuana(s3105)
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Bill Summary · HB 2958

Legislative bill overview

HB 2958 would establish drug testing requirements for individuals applying for or receiving benefits under Texas's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. The bill creates a mechanism to screen applicants and recipients for controlled substance use as a condition of program eligibility or continued benefits.

Why is this important

TANF serves approximately 90,000 Texas families monthly with cash assistance for basic needs. Drug testing policies directly affect program access for vulnerable populations and have significant budgetary implications for both the state and affected families. This issue sits at the intersection of substance abuse policy, poverty assistance, and individual privacy rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional and privacy concerns: Previous drug testing programs for welfare recipients have faced legal challenges under Fourth Amendment grounds; courts have sometimes ruled such testing unconstitutional without individualized suspicion
  • Cost-effectiveness questions: Drug testing administrative costs may exceed savings from benefit denials, particularly if positive rates are low; some states found testing programs more expensive than beneficial
  • Disparate impact and equity: Drug testing may disproportionately affect certain demographics and raises concerns about whether it actually addresses substance abuse or simply creates barriers to assistance for vulnerable populations
  • Treatment access vs. punishment: Critics argue funds would be better spent on addiction treatment rather than testing and benefit denial mechanisms

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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