First Results In On State’s Drug-Testing Of Welfare Recipients

Officials say there have been only a few positive results in the state’s new program to drug-test welfare recipients.
The Tennessean cited the Department of Human Services in reporting that 37 out of 16,017 people who applied for Families First cash assistance benefits have tested positive for drugs since the law took effect six months ago. State data shows another 81 discontinued the application process after filling out a drug screening questionnaire.
Opponents of the law say it singles out poor people for drug testing over others who get federal benefits.
Supporters of the law say they are pleased with the results.
Tennessee is one of 12 states that require welfare applicants to go through a drug screening and testing process.