Bill to drug test Ind. welfare recipients advances

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A legislative committee is backing a proposal to require drug testing for some Indiana welfare recipients despite complaints that it's unfair to the state's neediest residents.

The state Senate Health Committee voted 9-3 Wednesday in favor of requiring all applicants for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program to complete a written screening test for possible drug abuse problems.

The bill approved by the House would require those later failing a drug test to enter a treatment program to keep receiving benefit payments. The Senate committee changed the bill to allow those on treatment waiting lists to remain eligible for benefits.

Testing supporters say it's aimed at helping those with drug problems and protecting children. Some faulted the proposal for not providing money for additional treatment programs.