INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – An Indiana lawmaker says he's reconsidering his proposal to require welfare recipients to take drug tests.
Democratic Rep. Terry Goodin of Crothersville proposed the testing requirement in a last-minute amendment on the House floor Tuesday. He said it would help fight a recent HIV outbreak in southern Indiana.
House members approved the measure Wednesday.
Goodin is now reconsidering his proposal after learning that its impact on drug use in high-risk areas could be minimal.
Only nine adults receive payments from a welfare program known as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families in Scott County, which is where the outbreak originated. About 60 adults receive benefits on behalf of 93 children.
The bill now goes to the Senate where its author must approve any changes.
