Sponsor Statement for HB 434

An Act Requiring Drug Testing for Applicants for and Recipients of Assistance Under the Alaska Temporary Assistance Program

By Representative Norman Rokeberg

House Bill 434 would require that a person eligible for assistance under the Alaska temporary assistance program would not be eligible for that program if the person unlawfully uses a controlled substance or refuses to be tested for drug use by the department.

Under Section 902 of HR 3734 (which became Public Law 104-93) a state is not prohibited by the federal government from testing welfare recipients for use of controlled substances nor from sanctioning welfare recipients who test positive for the use of controlled substances.

Giving an Alaskan a hand in a time of need is indeed a good idea. However, we need to be sure that the Alaskans we are helping are making an effort to help themselves. Illegal use of controlled substances is, frankly, illegal and Alaskan and Federal funds should not be used to prop up individuals who cannot stay clean long enough to take care of themselves, find a job, hold down a job, and provide a safe and nurturing atmosphere for their children.

In a recent House District 11 survey, 325 individuals believed that random alcohol and drug tests should be required of welfare recipients as a condition for receiving benefits while 106 did not.

I would urge your positive support of this legislation.

ED1: 3/6/98