State bill would drug test those on welfare

[A_Ghost]

http://niagara-gazette.com/local/x16...ose-on-welfare


May 9, 2012
State bill would drug test those on welfare
Staff Reports
Niagara Gazette


ALBANY — State Assemblyman John Ceretto, R-Lewiston, has sponsored legislation that would allow local social services agencies to conduct random drug tests of individuals receiving public assistance.


Under Ceretto's proposed bill, people who tested positive would still be eligible to receive welfare benefits as long as enrolled in a drug- or alcohol-rehabilitation program.


"By helping to combat substance abuse, my legislation will strengthen our communities and better protect the most vulnerable in our society, our children, while cracking down on wasteful government spending," Ceretto said. "In these difficult economic times for all families, those receiving taxpayer funding need to play by the rules, too. Hard-working taxpayers should not be forced to fund other people's drug and alcohol addictions."


Ceretto said the current law makes it difficult for social services districts to adequately identify those who use or abuse drugs and alcohol. As a result, he said, many participants fail to receive the drug and alcohol treatment that would be helpful to them and their families.


"This bill is not about stripping welfare benefits: It's about providing people with the help they need while also protecting taxpayers from individuals looking to abuse the system," Ceretto said.


The bill would require passage by the Assembly and state Senate as well as approval by Gov. Andrew Cuomo before it can become law. It is currently awaiting action in the Assembly's Social Services Committee.

[JustRetired]

This bill could possibly pass in the Senate. I really doubt it would ever get out of committee in the Assembly, and if it did, would surely not pass the Assembly.

[Dougles]

Shelly and the NYC liberals would never let this happen. They make MILLIONS each from Medicaid fraud and abuse every year!