HB3 Alabama 2019 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Tommy Hanes

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2019

Title

Human Resources Dept., Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), benefits, drug testing for applicant required

Summary

HB3 would require drug testing for SNAP applicants under reasonable suspicion, set cost rules and penalties for positive tests, and allow some benefits to be redirected to third parties for dependents.

What This Bill Does

The bill would require the Department of Human Resources to screen SNAP applicants for drugs when there is reasonable suspicion of use. The initial screening cost would be paid by the department, while any later screenings would be paid by the applicant (with reimbursement if the test is negative). If a person tests positive without a valid prescription, there would be escalating consequences: a second positive results in one year of SNAP ineligibility and a third positive results in permanent ineligibility, with no more than two additional screenings per year; a parent who tests positive can designate a third party to receive benefits for a dependent child, and the dependent child’s benefits are protected if the parent is denied. The bill also requires notice and a signed acknowledgment from applicants, allows administrative hearings for denials, and authorizes the department to adopt rules to implement the program.

Who It Affects

• SNAP applicants and recipients who may be subjected to drug screening based on reasonable suspicion and who would face cost sharing and potential ineligibility depending on screening results.
• Parents or guardians of dependent children (and other household members) who could have benefits redirected to a designated third party for the child, and whose dependent child’s benefits remain protected if the parent is denied benefits.

Key Provisions

• Definitions of drug and drug screening, including a list of substances considered drugs and the criteria for a valid drug screen.
• Requirement for the Department of Human Resources to implement a drug screening program for SNAP applicants with notice, cost rules, eligibility consequences for positive tests, and time limits on additional screenings.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Human Resources Department