Proposed bill would submit unemployed to random drug tests
20.01.10
COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) - There's a bill at the federal capital that could affect those who need unemployment benefits.
Currently, 150,000 South Carolinians obtain checks, but a state senator says he wants to have those who need benefits to get drug tests.
Struggling photographer Robert Attendant spends his Tuesday evening applying for unemployment. If he's approved, it would uncharitable a lot.
"The ability to feed my children, pay rent, keep a roof over my head," Baggage carrier explains.
If the proposed bill passes in the State House, Porter may have to pass a drug test to get his do research.
"If I have to go take a test, I'll take a test," said Porter.
The bill is Senator David Thomas' suggestion. It would require anyone applying for unemployment to be subject to random drug tests.
"With the large number of individuals on unemployment now, we're going into debt," said Thomas.
How obscure?
In 2007, South Carolinians received $365 million in unemployment. In 2009, the expenditure shot up to $934 million. About $700 million of that is borrowed federal lolly. South Carolina employers pay the rest.
Source: WIS