Costa introduces bill to drug test public assistance recipients

6/14/2011

News

STATE HOUSE -- Rep. Doreen Costa (R-Dist. 31, North Kingstown, Exeter) introduced House bill (2011-H6249) that would implement mandatory drug screening for all applicants for Public Assistance.

“In these difficult economic times we need to offer public assistance to only those who are truly in need. Active drug users should not receive taxpayer assistance and this program would address that,” said Representative Costa.

This legislation is similar to a bill that was passed into law in Florida earlier this year. “Cash assistance should be offered on a short term basis to offer residents a temporary helping hand when they are facing financial challenges. This type of screening will prevent drug users from taking advantage of this program that we need to remember is funded by the hard working taxpayers of the State of Rhode Island,” commented Representative Costa.

She continued, “I hope this bill will receive a fair hearing in committee and make it to the House floor for a public debate and vote.”

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In 1636, Roger Williams, founder of Rhode Island, established the first working model of Democracy after being banished from Massachusetts for his “extreme views” concerning freedom of speech and religion. Thomas Jefferson and John Adams publicly acknowledged Williams as the originator of these concepts, along with the freedom of public assembly, in the First Amendment in the United States Constitution. Today, Rhode Island House Republicans uphold the liberties designed by our Founders and preserved in our Constitution, and are the primary legislative body promoting lean government, fighting for lower taxes, and advocating for initiatives and policies that improve the economy and in turn, the lives of Rhode Islanders. As members of a part-time assembly, we are small business owners, retired educators, community activists, lawyers, farmers, military service veterans, volunteers, former local officials, retired social workers, coaches, musicians, churchgoers and board directors -- bringing these community engagement and professional experiences to our work, on your behalf, at the Rhode Island State House.