Indiana House backs drug tests of welfare recipients

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Some welfare recipients would face drug testing under a proposal that's been approved by the Indiana House.

The House voted 78-17 on Monday to require all applicants for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program to complete a written screening test for possible drug abuse problems.

Those identified as possible drug abusers would need to undergo a drug test. Anyone failing that test would then have to take part in a treatment program to continue receiving benefit payments.

Bill sponsor Rep. Jud McMillin of Brookville says it is aimed at helping those with drug abuse problems and improving the home environment for children. Some questioned whether there are enough affordable drug treatment programs available.

The Republican-dominated House last week rejected efforts by Democrats to have legislators face the same testing.