Pubdate: Mon, 19 Mar 2012
Source: USA Today (US)
Copyright: 2012 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Co. Inc
Contact: http://mapinc.org/url/625HdBMl
Website: http://www.usatoday.com/printedition/news/index.htm
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/466
Author: Kimberly Yee
Note: State Rep. Kimberly Yee, a Republican, serves on the Health and Human
Services Committee in the Arizona House. 

NO DRUG TEST, NO WELFARE

States have an obligation to hold those on public assistance
accountable for their actions. Receiving a public benefit is a
privilege, not a right. The debate on drug testing welfare recipients
is simply about the responsible use of tax dollars.

Most Americans, even my fellow fiscal conservatives, see the
legitimate need for benefit programs for those who are struggling and
need to get back on their feet. However, it is fiscally irresponsible
for public monies to subsidize the use of illegal drugs. Taxpayers
should not be in the business of funding the lifestyles of those who
are addicted to drugs, thereby condoning illegal behavior.

Arizona established a program in 2009 to test welfare recipients for
drug abuse when there's a reasonable suspicion of drug use. This
program confronts addicts with their drug abuse problems so they may
quickly receive treatment and become productive members of society
again.

It is not uncommon for individuals employed in the private sector to
be tested for drug use when applying for a job. For business owners,
this practice holds employees accountable for their actions, and if
they do not pass the drug test, there is a very simple consequence: no
job.

Similarly, if states like Arizona choose to drug test those who are on
welfare and drug use is found, the consequence should be the same: no
further taxpayer assistance.

Opponents of drug testing welfare recipients believe that denying
benefits to drug users unjustly punishes families and takes money away
from children. In fact, drug users deny their own children a healthy
lifestyle and positive example.

By looking away when drug use is determined, we're condoning this
illegal behavior and missing an opportunity to turn the drug abuser's
situation around. Instead, we should get drug abusers back on track
and prepare them to get and keep jobs when their temporary assistance
ends.

Taxpayers deserve to know that their hard-earned dollars are wisely
used and not funding a drug user's next hit.
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MAP posted-by: Richard R Smith Jr.