Should those on welfare have to undergo drug testing before they receive benefits? It's an issue that's caused controversy in many states and has been proposed, though not approved, in South Carolina.
A bill was introduced in the South Carolina House last session that would end welfare payments to anyone who fails a drug test twice.
The bill didn't get very far. It never came up for a vote in the full House, but among folks we talked to, random drug testing for welfare recipients just seems to make sense.
"I just don't feel they should get something for nothing," said Debbie Poat of Myrtle Beach.
"A lot of them deserve it, definitely, I have no qualms against that," added Gloria Schmitt of Myrtle Beach, "But a lot of them do misuse what they do get."
But drug testing has its opponents, too. The American Civil Liberties Union says "Random drug testing of welfare recipients is scientifically and medically unsound," citing a 1996 study that showed those on welfare are no more likely to use drugs than the rest of the population.
The ACLU also pointed out that many states have considered random drug testing for welfare recipients, but ended up abandoning the plan because it costs too much and fails to identify people using dangerous drugs like methamphetamine or cocaine.
And the Executive Director of Family Outreach of Horry County, a non-profit agency that works with many families on public assistance, says we shouldn't blame people for needing support.
"It's just an added burden to people who are already in need. It's stereotyping them, that if they need help, there must be something wrong with them," said Susan Canterbury.
On the other hand, supporters of random drug testing say it wouldn't necessarily be blaming welfare recipients. It could be good for them.
"I'm sure if we tested, it would reduce the amount of welfare recipients actually taking drugs and therefore it would help."
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Earlier story
Should welfare recipients in South Carolina have to submit to drug testing before they receive benefits?
According to Rep. Tracy Edge (R, North Myrtle Beach) there are no bills pending in the South Carolina legislature that would call for drug testing for welfare recipients. However, lawmakers in several other states have proposed it.
Gov. Nikki Haley made drug testing for recipients of unemployment benefits an issue during her election campaign.
Weldon Davis, a candidate for the statehouse from Spartanburg, made drug testing for welfare recipients an issue in his campaign, though he was unsuccessful in the June, 2010 GOP primary.
The Missouri House of Representatives has passed a bill has passed a bill requiring random drug testing for some welfare recipients, if there is a reasonable suspicion the recipient was using illegal drugs.
A Kentucky state lawmaker has proposed drug testing for adults who receive food stamps, Medicaid or other state assistance.
The American Civil Liberties Union claims random testing of welfare recipients is scientifically unsound and fiscally irresponsible.
What do you think? Should welfare recipients have to submit to random drug testing before they can receive benefits?
