Nebraskans: Oppose mean-spirited welfare benefits drug testing bill hearing on March 10

Published: March 8, 2011

On Thursday, March 10, a legislative committee will hold a hearing on a bill that would terminate welfare benefits for one year and send recipients to drug treatment upon a positive test for marijuana — even if they use marijuana for medical purposes. Please attend the hearing, and testify about why you oppose the bill. Make sure to dress professionally and speak respectfully.

What: Health and Human Services Committee hearing on L.B. 221, welfare benefits drug testing bill

When: Thursday, March 10, 1:30 p.m.

Where: Room 1510, Nebraska Capitol, 1445 K Street, Lincoln, NE

Please also e-mail your senator, asking her or him to oppose L.B. 221.

The bill will direct the Department of Health and Human Services to develop a mandatory program for screening welfare recipients if there is “reasonable cause” to think a recipient is using a controlled substance. However, “reasonable cause” is undefined. If the person tests positive, benefits will be terminated for one year.  

This bill is wrong-headed, incredibly wasteful of scant state resources, and may even be unconstitutional.

Please pass this on so that more Nebraskans can participate in reform.