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alp227

(32,019 posts)
Wed Apr 18, 2012, 01:27 PM Apr 2012

No Savings Are Found From Welfare Drug Tests

Ushered in amid promises that it would save taxpayers money and deter drug users, a Florida law requiring drug tests for people who seek welfare benefits resulted in no direct savings, snared few drug users and had no effect on the number of applications, according to recently released state data.

“Many states are considering following Florida’s example, and the new data from the state shows they shouldn’t,” said Derek Newton, communications director for the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida, which sued the state last year to stop the testing and recently obtained the documents. “Not only is it unconstitutional and an invasion of privacy, but it doesn’t save money, as was proposed.”

This week, Georgia instituted a nearly identical law, with supporters saying it would foster greater personal responsibility and save money. As in Florida, the law is expected to draw a legal challenge. The Southern Center for Human Rights, based in Atlanta, said it expected to file a lawsuit once the law takes effect in the next several months. A number of other states are considering similar bills.

The Florida civil liberties group sued the state last year, arguing that the law constituted an “unreasonable search” by the government, a violation of the Fourth Amendment. In issuing a temporary injunction in October, Judge Mary S. Scriven of Federal District Court scolded lawmakers and said the law “appears likely to be deemed a constitutional infringement.”

full: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/18/us/no-savings-found-in-florida-welfare-drug-tests.html

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iscooterliberally

(2,860 posts)
3. "...and had no effect on the number of applications.."
Wed Apr 18, 2012, 01:32 PM
Apr 2012

I think these laws are just a back door attack on welfare recipients. Typical Y.O.Y.O shit.

catbyte

(34,375 posts)
4. That's not the point. The point is humiliation
Wed Apr 18, 2012, 01:55 PM
Apr 2012

Diane
Anishinaabe in MI & mom to Leo, Sophie, Taz & Nigel, members of Dogs Against Romney, Cat Division
"We ride inside--HISS!”

wandy

(3,539 posts)
5. These drug tests support three over all ends....
Wed Apr 18, 2012, 02:22 PM
Apr 2012

1) Provide an additional source of profit for you're 'campaign' contributers.
2) Provide 'red meat' to you're base.
3) Reinforce the need of you're base to feel superior to at least someone.

What other end can it serve.

sinkingfeeling

(51,448 posts)
6. "We had to stop allowing tax dollars for anybody to buy drugs with,” said State Representative
Wed Apr 18, 2012, 02:36 PM
Apr 2012

Jimmie T. Smith, a Republican who sponsored the bill last year.

Wonder how many state reps and senators across the land use. When can we drug-test them?

 

WingDinger

(3,690 posts)
7. Cute, turn the desperate into criminals, or die. What about patients?
Wed Apr 18, 2012, 03:06 PM
Apr 2012

They want ideological wins, screw rationality. They dont care how much it costs. If it creates more victims, from starvation, or robbery, good, as they will be able to demonize drug use, as violent.

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