I live in the state of Michigan and this is one of the issues that was brought up in ad campaigns (as well as reparations but I won't go there
). I must say that I am not totally sold on the drug testing debate ...it can be considered as a violation of the 4th amendment (which guarantees that no individual in this country can be subjected to a search by the government unless there is reasonable suspicion that they have committed some crime). With that being said, serious implications can result from this. I mean to imply that a(ll) welfare recipient uses drugs is ridiculous. It does not address other forms of abuse such as alcoholism. However, reform in the welfare system should be devoted to implementing time limits and restraints for those who abuse the system. Welfare recipients should be required to obatin more than just a GED. Most welfare recipients stay on welfare because they are not trained (or required to be trained)in specific skills that would result in employment particularly to jobs preferrable in the area they live in. In California they offer the MOVE program, formally known as More Opportunities for Viable Employment, which offers training and moving assistance to unemployed Tulare County residents who secure jobs in other parts of the country where unemployment is low. However, 5.4 million dollars has been withdrawn threatening the end of welfare-to-work programs. Not to get to politcal here, but also in the state of Michigan we are also fighting the privatization of Blue Cross Blue Shield. Most elderly can not afford the prescription cost let alone paying (in full) for medicines. Some of these seniors are on some form of assistance from the government. Treatments for some ailments for medicinal use (such as marijuana) could be used against them. Drug testing could effect them too. How could that be policed and protect the people who truly need them? It is too many loopholes to justify its ratification.