From now on, families receiving assistance in the form of cash from the state--will be screened for drugs. Social workers say it's a new initiative to improve Oklahoma families.
The application for Temporary Assistance to Needy Families is long. But mom,"Amber" says she has no choice.
"It's because I don't have anyone else to turn to and I really need the help," she said.
We concealed her face for privacy, but her public appeal for help will mean a drug screening and possibly a test.
"I would take the test. I have no problem taking the test. I am here because I really need the help, not because I am trying to work the system or not because I'm trying to see what I can get out of somebody," she explained.
A positive drug test removes parents from the program. Children can stay on, with another relative as the recipient.
"So in the long run, I do think it will be a benefit and it will help the parents become self reliant and productive members of society and that will only enrich lives and help the children," said Toy O'Brien, of the Department of Human Services.
Anyone testing positive could receive free rehab for the sake of families.
"Parents need to be a good role model for their children and that is way children learn to work, is by seeing their parents get up and go to work everyday," said O'Brien.
With one offense the applicant could undergo rehab, come back clean and on the program in six months. The second time, they would be suspended for three years.
The cash program itself is only temporary, five years max. Amber has her own deadline.
"Six months to a year, that's it. I just need to get on my feet. I have a degree, cutting hair. I just need help getting on my feet."
Applicants in the program are required to do 20 to 30 hours a week of training to get them back in the workforce.
