State lawmakers are taking testimony on legislation to require some state welfare recipients to undergo drug testing.
Michigan tried before to require drug testing of welfare recipients. That law mandated random drug testing. But the courts stopped that program a decade ago.
Some legislators want to resurrect the idea, though this new program would focus on cash assistance recipients who are suspected of using illegal drugs.
“Hard earned tax dollars should be used efficiently,” says Utica State Representative Jeff Farrington. He’s the bill’s sponsor. “There are limited resources as we all know. Those resources should go to those in highest need. If someone is using cash assistance for their illegal drug habit that’s not a good use of our resources.”
Substance abuse treatment and welfare advocates oppose the drug testing requirement. They say the proposal won’t save the state any money.
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