Florida has passed legislation that would force welfare recipients to undergo drug tests before they’re able to receive aid. The law, set to go into effect July 1, would make applicants to the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program pay for the tests upfront, but ensures they will be reimbursed if they pass.

Governor Rick Scott defended the legislation in a CNN interview:

“It’s not right for taxpayer money to be paying for somebody’s drug addiction. On top of that, this is going to increase personal responsibility, personal accountability. We shouldn’t be subsidizing people’s addiction.”

Do you think such legislation is worthwhile to protect the spending of tax dollars, or that it goes too far in violating recipients’ privacy?

Florida governor defends measure requiring drug tests for welfare [CNN]

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