Pubdate: Thu, 18 Mar 2004 Source: Stillwater News Press (OK) Copyright: 2004 Stillwater News Press Contact: http://www.stwnewspress.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/789 Author: Roberta E. Brown-Fanning DISPLAY OF RESPONSIBILITY Drug testing is possible infringement on some people's rights, but we all must be responsible to see that police officers and others who serve the public are stable mentally as well as drug free. Our lives could depend on it. Some drugs can stay in the human body for days and weeks and my concern is the "use of illegal drugs." Illegal drugs impair judgment and affect mental health. As far as the mom who is on Prozac, Zoloft or prescription medication that is needed for a medical problem, good for her to realize she needs help, but she too must be responsible while using these medications. She must remember that she can be drug tested if her driving becomes impaired, causing serious accident. As far as drug testing our government officials, this might not be a bad idea for they are responsible for many decisions we see in our life. These people make and pass laws that involve our freedoms and rights. Do we want impaired government officials? A drug testing policy is needed to show that Payne County is being responsible and concerned for the public, and also that county employees are qualified for their jobs. Roberta E. Brown-Fanning Glencoe - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin