Drug Tests for State Benefits Proposed

ATLANTA (MyFOX ATLANTA) - A Georgia lawmaker has proposed that the state start random drug testing for anyone receiving state benefits, including unemployment, welfare services and food stamps.

State Representative Michael Harden said he wants random drug testing for anyone receiving unemployment or welfare assistance.

"To ensure the taxpayers of Georgia that their tax dollars are not going to contribute to illegal activity and that the people who receive benefits are legitimate people in need of a hand up and aren't abusing benefits," said Rep. Harden.

Richard Satchell said he's been searching for a job for close to a year. Satchell said he didn't like the idea of being screened for drugs while he collects unemployment benefits.

"I don't think its right. I don't think its Big Brother's business what I'm doing," said Satchell.

Mike Thornton, who also receives unemployment benefits, disagreed saying it’s the right thing to do. "You should be able to be clean instead of spending your money on drugs."

"If you have been working for a period of time, and are terminated for no fault of your own, you're entitled and you should get that safety net," said Charlie Flemming of the Atlanta Labor Commission.

Under the proposed legislation, if someone fails the drug test, they lose benefits until they test clean for drugs. If the person fails the test a second time they won't receive benefits for two years.

Joyce Dorsey of the Fulton Atlanta Community Action Authority said she thought the penalty was too harsh.

"Do we say you're denied your benefits, therefore you're denied any chance to thrive while you seek employment?" asked Dorsey.

Rep. Harden defended the proposal saying that if someone is doing drugs and collecting benefits, it affects all Georgians. "We're basically funding illegal behavior," Harden said.

Under the legislation, the person receiving benefits would be required to pay for the drug test, which costs about $20 to $25.