HIGH COURT SHOULD ALLOW DRUG TESTING OF WELFARE RECIPIENTS

The Michigan House of Representatives approved an amendment I
sponsored to Senate Bill 270, the general government budget. The
amendment provides $150,000 to the attorney general to appeal a court
decision against Michigan's testing and treatment program for welfare
recipients who abuse drugs.

The goal of the testing program is to help individuals who have a drug
problem overcome it so they are able to get a job to support
themselves and their family.

It is important for the U.S. Supreme Court to review the recent ruling
that invalidated state welfare recipient drug-testing requirements. If
the court ruling is reversed, participation in the drug-testing
program would be mandatory. Failing a drug test would not result in
the denial of benefits and could not be used to bring criminal charges
against the individual. Instead, the law requires an individual who
fails a drug test to comply with a drug treatment plan.

The facts are that 28% of adults receiving assistance abuse or are
addicted to drugs or alcohol. Child abuse and neglect occurs roughly
with parents not receiving assistance.

Failure to participate in the program or failure to comply with a drug
treatment plan will result in reduced public assistance and
elimination of assistance after four months of noncompliance.

I believe that testing welfare recipients for drug abuse is the most
responsible way for Michigan to disburse its welfare dollars while
ensuring that those in need of help get what they need.