Pubdate: Sat, 23 Feb 2013
Source: Topeka Capital-Journal (KS)
Copyright: 2013 The Topeka Capital-Journal
Contact:  http://cjonline.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/455
Author: Terry Larson

WHY STOP AT DRUG TESTING THE POOR?

Sen. Jeff King, R-Independence, has introduced a bill that would 
require drug testing of the poor and jobless in order for them to 
receive state benefits. He claims it's not punitive. It is typical 
Republican thinking.

Sen. Anthony Hensley, D-Topeka, had it partially right when he said 
such a mandate should be extended to CEOs of companies receiving tax dollars.

But a drug testing mandate would not be truly fair unless it was 
extended to all persons whose employment is paid for by the taxpayers.

Perhaps it should start with the legislators, the governor and the 
secretary of state? Some of their ideas cause me to wonder what they 
might be smoking or sniffing or drinking.

Then we could move on to all public employees.

I would also suggest that King and his friends learn about drug and 
alcohol addiction disorders. They are complex diseases, often 
treatment resistant.

King also might study the probable consequences of ending people's benefits.

But please, just don't go after poor people until you're testing everyone else.

TERRY LARSON, TOPEKA
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom