A public hearing was held this week on bills requiring drug testing for certain people getting public assistance and unemployment benefits in Wisconsin.
Gov. Scott Walker first proposed drug testing for those on public assistance in his budget plan. A separate bill by Republican Rep. Mike Rohrkaste builds on that idea, with treatment money and two chances to pass a drug test for those in worker training programs. Rhorkaste called his proposal a “jobs bill.”
The legislation’s “aim is not punitive but instead is designed to offer a hand up to those suffering from substance abuse,” Rohrkaste said.
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Milwaukee resident Andy Andre was unconvinced. He spoke out against a provision that could—if approved by federal officials—cut FoodShare benefits to those in a worker training program who fail drug tests.
“How pathetic to pretend like you are trying to help somebody who has drug problems. To take their food away?!” said Andre.
Rhorkaste is sponsoring another bill requiring drug testing for certain people receiving unemployment benefits.
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