Drug Testing the Needy - KXNet - Bismarck/Minot/Williston/Dickinson

Drug Testing the Needy

A Devils Lake Representative says if a person can afford drugs, they shouldn't get food stamps or other state assistance.

Rep. Dennis Johnson proposes a bill to make those receiving state assistance pass a drug test.

Opponents say it's overreaching and does not address drug issues.

They say drug testing may humiliate those people who are clean and do need help.

Representative Keith Kempenich says, "there's some standards we need to look at when people come in and want assistance from the state. I think some requirements aren't overly burdensome."

"The vast majority of people who apply for assistance are very embarrassed and ashamed to ask for help. Many of those who are eligible don't want to apply because they don't want to go over that hurdle," says Representative Kathy Hogan who opposes the bill.

41 states have introduced similar legislation, and passed in seven states.

The bill is 1385.