why is it that most jobs today require drug testing, but people who do not work and receive state assistance?

Question

do not have to take a drug test to get money and food? i am not begrudging people who are poor of the service, but i think they should have to have a drug test to qualify for assistance, anyone else feel the same?

i realize that government is not private sector but on the other had they also require a drug test to work for them.

Answer 1

If the govt required a drug test it would violate the constitutional requirement of probable cause, and an unwarranted search,

A private business can do whatever it wants.

Answer 2

I don't think anyone should be drug tested. If someone can perform their judge well, then why does it matter if they do drugs. Yes, drugs are illegal and can harm them. But why should the employer have to worry about their drug use. I don't think it is an efficient way to spend money. If someone isn't performing well, the employer can fire them or ask them to take a drug test.



Now, as to your question, there are several reasons.

1. Drug tests are expensive. It would cost a lot of many to drug test every single person that qualified for assistance.
2. Drug tests require certain conditions to be administered and it would be difficult to carry out.
3. These are people who need food and money badly. I don't think people deserve to starve if they do drugs. Drugs are known to be addictive and sometimes people cannot quit. If you cut them off from the program, you may cause them to start dealing drugs to survive.

A more efficient option, similar to many currently carried out, is to give assistance contingent on the fact that they do something to get themselves in a better situation (work, school).

Answer 3

Most jobs are private sector and if a private sector employer wants you to take a drug test, they can. If someone doesn't want to take the drug test they can get another job. As far as people on public assistance--for whatever reason they are on it---it may be more hassle than it's worth to require a drug test for it.

Answer 4

Betty-There are jobs within the Federal govt that do require drug testing....it is NOT against the law.

Answer 5

what a good idea! But obviously our government would never do that....they are the same ones that wouldn't close our borders after 9/11...... that would have stopped the drugs coming from mexico

You need to suggest this to congress!

Answer 6

well: according to "Employment" all states &county require
that yourself must have an Back Ground check because it's
for company security. Also if want assistance there's other
programs yes! called "Welfare" for low income families or single
couples with child to support .See http://www.welfareprogram/service.com

Answer 7

.. and then what? If their test comes back positive, are you going to let them starve to death?
They're not expected to be responsible enough to work, so whom could they possibly harm by being stoned while doing nothing?
I'm all for re-education, assistance to help find jobs, motivational training, emotional re-education, and anything that will reduce the welfare load.
But, drug tests for welfare recipients - too little, too late - and not an acceptable outcome.

Answer 8

Great idea.
Why don't you give 'em a lie detector test as well?
And while you're at it, shine a bright light into their eyes and interrogate them, make absolutely sure they are who they say they are.
And when you've done all that, and they've passed all your tests, don't forget to tell them to have a nice day.

Answer 9

OMG, i think that's the best idea I've ever heard