State Sen: Drug test welfare recipients

ATLANTA — A state senator from Metro Atlanta wants the state to implement mandatory drug testing for welfare recipients.

State Sen. John Albers, R-Roswell, said any would-be recipients who fail the test for illegal drugs would be barred from receiving state benefits for a period of time. Under the proposed measure, the Georgia Department of Human Services would set the exact period of time.

Albers said he would introduce the measure — named the “Social Responsibility and Accountability Act” — for consideration during the next legislative session, which starts in January.

“Passing this bill is a step in the right direction for our hardworking citizens, and will curb the entitlement mentality that has become so pervasive in our society,” Albers said in a news release. “Georgians should no longer have to foot the heavy burden of paying for those with drug addictions. Earlier this year, similar welfare-related drug screening was passed in Florida and Missouri, and has set a new precedent for social accountability and responsibility.”

The results of the drug tests would remain confidential, except as required by law, according to Albers.

“The Social Responsibility and Accountability Act touts the virtues of individual responsibility and accountability, and relieves the taxpayer from undue tax burdens,” Albers said. “The proposed legislation would serve to reward law-obeying citizens who need assistance the most.”