Watch CBS News

Welfare Drug Testing Bill Advances

MIAMI (CBS4) - A Florida Senate bill requiring new applicants for a form of welfare assistance to get drug tests at their own expense moved forward Wednesday.

The bill was passed by the Senate budget subcommittee Wednesday on a 5-2 party line vote. All Republicans supported the measure while both Democrats voted against it.

Republican Senator Steve Oelrich sponsored the bill and said it's fair for welfare recipients to get drug tested because many, taxpayers are screened by their employers.

Senate Democrat Nan Rich said it's unfair to make poor people pay for drug tests that can cost up to $35.

Rich also cited a national study that showed almost no difference in the rate of drug use between welfare recipients and other people.

(© 2010 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.