Unemployed persons in Wisconsin may now lose their unemployment benefits if they fail a drug test or refuse to take one from an employer as part of an offer of employment. The rule change was submitted by the Department of Workforce Development and signed by Governor Scott Walker.
Under the plan, employers are not required to submit drug testing information. They may voluntarily submit information about drug tests they have conducted for their workers.
If a worker seeking unemployment benefits fails a drug test given by a past employer or declines to take one for future employment, he or she can be denied benefits. In order to receive unemployment benefits, the worker must agree to and complete taxpayer-funded treatment, as well as a job skills test.
“This new rule brings us one step closer to moving Wisconsinites from government dependence to true independence,” Governor Walker said. “We frequently hear from employers that they have good paying jobs, but they need their workers to be drug-free. This rule is a common-sense reform which strengthens our workforce by helping people find and keep a family supporting job.”
