By Rose Krzton-Presson
Murray, KY – The Kentucky Legislature returns to action in February, one bill that might be taken up will require random drug testing for those who receive food stamps or other state assistance. Republican Representative Lonnie Napier proposed the bill which would stop state assistance for someone who fails a drug test. Critics say the bill could harm the children of welfare recipients who fail the test, but Napier says that the bill is designed to only help people.
"If somebody is on drugs, they say, Well, okay. You can go now and take some treatments or be educated. In the meantime, we'll keep your food stamps coming to you for your children.' But if you refuse treatment to take counseling or education on this problem, you're going to lose your money."
Napier has garnered some bi-partisan support with the help of House Speaker Greg Stumbo who's a democrat. Two separate polls conducted by Lexington television stations show support for the bill.