Each year, both state and federal governments provide thousands, if not millions, of dollars in programs deemed “welfare”. These social programs include things like nutritional assistance, unemployment, social security, commodities, grants and loans for school, governmentally funded health care, and more. Some people say that recipients of these types of governmental help should be required to undergo drug testing. But what are the pros and cons of drug testing welfare recipients. Here, we will look at both the pros and cons of drug testing welfare recipients by giving you both sides.
Pros
Those who fall on the pro (for) side as far as the pros and cons of drug testing welfare recipients use several compelling arguments. These include the fact that this move could possibly save the government money by taking drug addicts off welfare programs. Some also see it as extra incentive for those in lower socioeconomic classes to stay off drugs in the first place. Still others reason that since those who regularly work could be drug tested at any time due to their jobs, so those receiving welfare should have to undergo the same testing.
Cons
One could also argue that there are several cons of drug testing welfare recipients. A few believe that this is purely discrimination against the poor, who most often receive these benefits. They argue that since some people have jobs where they are never drug tested (and are sometimes very highly paid, even) that poor people should not have to undergo testing. This group also often says that such an argument is basically telling poor people that they have no right to be happy, or experience the full spectrum of human experience, whereas those not on welfare who are not drug tested at their jobs can do this freely. Still others think this might bar some people (like some very young children, due to their parents’ drug use) from getting help they might need.
The Future
In the future, drug testing may or may not be required for welfare recipients. Truly, it is up to the citizens, at large, to determine what they feel are the most important pros and cons of drug testing welfare recipients. Then, you can speak for your side by voting for politicians who support your side of the argument. In this way, your opinions will, hopefully, be reflected in any legislation that is passed pertaining to this issue.
