Saturday, May 07, 2011

Fla. lawmakers require drug tests for welfare recipients

A bill that would require all Florida welfare recipients to pass a drug test is on its way to the governor's mansion, where it is expected to be signed into law immediately.


Fla. lawmakers passed the bill Thursday, buoyed by strong support from Republicans and Gov. Rick Scott, who's called it one of his "top priorities" as governor.

The legislation would also require welfare applicants to pay for their own drug tests. Urine analysis screenings can cost between $30-$80. Around 60,000 people would be affected, according to earlier reports.

The state said it will reimburse welfare recipients who pass the tests, but a failure will disqualify them for benefits for up to a year. A second failure will disqualify them for up to three years.

An earlier executive order signed by Gov. Scott mandated quarterly drug screenings for all state employees, with random screenings throughout.

Read on.

No comments: