The Cap Times – by Jessie Opoien
Wisconsin is one step closer to implementing a policy that would require some applicants to take a drug test in order to receive food stamps, job training or unemployment insurance.
Gov. Scott Walker announced on Tuesday that he has approved an administrative rule submitted by the state Department of Children and Families that would establish a process to screen for and test for the use of controlled substances by applicants for state work experience programs, and to refer those determined to be abusing drugs to a treatment program.
The rule is set to take effect on November 9.
Walker’s proposal to drug test for some recipients of public benefits was approved in the state budget, passed in July.
“Our 2015-17 State Budget implements common-sense reforms that put in place drug screening, testing, and treatment mechanisms, so we can continue strengthening Wisconsin’s workforce,” Walker said in a statement. “Employers across the state frequently tell me they have good-paying jobs available in high-demand fields, but need their workers to be drug-free. These important entitlement reforms will help more people find family-supporting jobs, moving them from government dependence to true independence.”
Administrative rules are policies implemented by state agencies, approved by the governor. They carry the same force as laws. The drug testing provision of the state budget required DCF to create this corresponding rule.
Critics say the proposal unfairly targets poor people, wasting state money with no evidence to justify the cost. Those spearheading the effort say their intent is to prepare people for the workforce and help them secure employment.
The provision requires applicants for state-run job training programs such as Wisconsin Works to answer a questionnaire that screens for drug abuse. Based on the results of that screening, a drug test could be required.
Those who fail the test would be required to receive state-funded treatment in order to remain eligible for job training. One positive test would be allowed during treatment. Those requirements would also apply to some recipients of federal SNAP benefits who are required to participate in the FoodShare Employment Training Program and to some applicants for unemployment insurance.
At least 12 states have passed similar laws, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Following the passage of the budget, Attorney General Brad Schimelfiled a lawsuit asking a federal judge to declare the requirement to drug test food stamp recipients to be legal. The lawsuit is ongoing.
Dammit! How can this be constitutional? It’s unreasonable search and self-incrimination.
Scott Walker, corporate sword swallower supreme, has no regard for the most venerable of us, not missing a chance to screw the taxpayer and favor his Koch brother buddies.
Now, for any state benefits, he gives millions of dollars to the drug testing and treatment industry and, at the same time, denies benefits for non-compliance. I swear, this guy would make Hitler jealous.
mandated vaccines will be next
Mary, I’ll get my gun out before that.
i doubt this will pass.. but forced vaccines, yeah i can see that getting a green light ..with the moronic ways our government works
besides , it doesnt matter , those that use , know how to get around it when the drug test do come, so it wont be a true representation of the drug addled public benefit recipient
“but forced vaccines, yeah i can see that getting a green light ..with the moronic ways our government works”
aka cronyism
aka payoffs for favoritism
Corporocracy is tyrannical evil.
Scott Walker should be the FIRST to be tested….
Followed by EVERY OTHER PUBLIC OFFICIAL.
Any rule or law they try to push on the people should always apply to THEM FIRST.
I want every one of them to line up and be shot up with the vaccines.
Its their duty, since we elected them.
Don’t ya think?
Agreed, Scott Walker should be the first in Wisconsin to test the “new, and approved” guillotine!