by Jonathan Webb

Created on: October 27, 2009

Every job I have applied for has required me to take a drug test. Why? Because the employer wants to know exactly how he will be paying his money. The right to work at a certain company can hinge on the results of that test. People in position of authority need to verify certain lifestyle choices before investing money into an individual. Welfare recipients should be no different.

They receive a benefit, a payment from the taxpayers. We as taxpayers deserve to know if our money, our investment is being spent wisely. I want to help individuals down on their luck, but I don't not want to give money to someone who may not be spending it on the things they need. There are too many people hurting who do not receive assistance to waste money on someone who is living in an unhealthy way. Just as an employer, we should demand people qualify for the benefits they receive and expect them to live in a certain way. If you want to do drugs, do it on your own time with your own money. Welfare should be looked at as a help, not a way of life. And, during that time of need, there should be certain standards you must live by.

And what happens to those who fail the drug test? Let's find ways to get them help if they want it. Once again I am putting the responsibility on the individual to make a decision of how they want to live their life. If they want help, there are plenty of groups, charities, and centers that will help them. If they don't, that is their decision and I am not a hand-holder to adults that refuse help. We are a compassionate society and this is not a mean position to take. Reading articles on the other side you would think those of us on the yes side are evil. We are not. We will help anyone who seeks it. We are interested in helping people overcome drug addiction, not encouraging it by throwing money around.

Let us get past this extreme on both sides and discuss solutions. If you want taxpayer assistence, you must follow certain guidelines. If you need help we will help you. If you decide you do not want to live a clean life that is a decision you are making. Taking a drug test is part of most job applications and I think of welfare as an employer-employee relationship. Let's make it a temporary one by not encouraging continued drug use.

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