Pubdate: Sat, 02 Feb 2008 Source: Honolulu Star-Bulletin (HI) Copyright: 2008 Honolulu Star-Bulletin Contact: http://www.starbulletin.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/196 Author: Sam Williams INCLUDE DRUG TESTING WITH PUBLIC ASSISTANCE One safeguard that could be employed to protect children whose parents are on welfare is to conduct random drug tests on household members. Having received welfare in a transitional time of my life when my children were very young, I deeply appreciate the boost it gave me to become a productive citizen. However, I am also aware that people use welfare to conduct their lives irresponsibly. Military personnel are drug tested. And the state deems it appropriate to drug test teachers. If welfare recipients are drug free and making an effort to become financially secure, that is good. But should our welfare system tax money be given to people who use drugs? SAM WILLIAMS Kaaawa - --- MAP posted-by: Steve Heath