Drug testing welfare recipients: Discuss

[FlyingNarwhal]

I've got mixed feelings on this. I'm generally in favor of drug testing for welfare, and I would be in favor for testing for alcohol and cigarettes (if there is any way to positively test for them, most likely through hair). And I'm pro legalization of all drugs but if you got the money to spend on pot, alcohol, butts, or whatever, then you shouldn't be asking for assistance. That money could go to families that truly needs the money and don't spend the little they have frivolously. Of course it is tragic that there are children of these drug users that would be affected negatively, but ultimately that responsibility falls upon the parent not the state. I would like to see aid go directly to children if possible because it is unfair that they have to suffer because of their parent's mistakes, but I think that can be best done through food stamps and school lunch programs.

Here's what I would rather see. Drug testing for welfare, but if you fail the drug test instead of just getting denied access to welfare you would have the option to participate in a treatment program during which you would undergo regular drug tests in exchange for welfare.

I see this all like liver transplants. If you're on the list you're not allowed to drink and if you do you get dropped to the bottom of the list. There are a limited amount of livers to go around, and you have to prove that you are deserving of it because there are other people that need it. Sometimes hard decisions have to be made when someone doesn't comply.