Pubdate: Sun, 11 Nov 2007
Source: Anchorage Daily News (AK)
Copyright: 2007 The Anchorage Daily News
Contact:  http://www.adn.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/18
Author: Vera S. Stepsics

IF YOU'RE GETTING PUBLIC ASSISTANCE, YOU SHOULD ACCEPT A DRUG TEST

It is becoming more prevalent in state and local business for 
prospective employees to pass a urine test to prove they are not 
using drugs. I think the state should require people on public 
assistance to submit to and pass a random drug test in order to 
continue collecting benefits.

I have a problem with the distribution of my hard-earned tax dollars 
and I truthfully can't afford them. People who work for a living 
should live better than those who do not. I see welfare moms getting 
their nails done regularly. I have no problem giving people a hand up 
when they are in need; but giving a handout is entirely different.

I recently observed a very fat family of four purchase all 
convenience, microwaveable and dessert-type foods with food stamps. 
There wasn't one package of meat, no milk, fruits, or vegetables in their bags.

Part of the drug testing program is already in place for probationers 
and such, so it would merely need to be extended to people receiving 
public assistance. The savings to taxpayers would more than outweigh the costs.

- -- Vera S. Stepsics

Anchorage
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MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart