Senator Ball Urges NY Lawmakers to Follow Florida’s Lead
Albany, N.Y. — (06/11/11) — Senator Greg Ball (R, C – Patterson) is urging fellow legislators to do the right thing and demand drug testing for welfare recipients in New York. Senator Ball has long advocated for a law that would ensure that hard-working taxpayers are not subsidizing drug addictions.
This week, Florida followed the lead of several other U.S. states, requiring anyone applying for public assistance to pass a drug test. Senator Ball, who first introduced the legislation as a member of the New York State Assembly said, “This type of law is not intended to embarrass or humiliate people in need. I understand that times are tough. However, we need to be sure that this money is being used for its intended purpose.”
Senator Ball is calling for a change in the New York’s social services law that would require applicants of public assistance to be screened for alcohol and/or substance abuse. If the person tests positive, they would be immediately denied public assistance and referred to a treatment program. Testing would be repeated every six months and apply to applicants who are under the age of 65.
“Taxes are killing this state. This is one way to not only tighten the belt and save millions of dollars, but get addicts the help they need,” said Ball.
