The cost of substance abuse is spiraling out of control. It is estimated by the year 2017 the cost of substance abuse will cost the food stamp program over $125,000,000.00[1]. This is an astronomical blow to this program. It is also stated in the study that children who are neglected and abused by a substance abusing parent are also more likely to abuse their own children and to develop substance abuse problems themselves[1]. The food stamps are not being used to purchase these children food, but however sold to support their parents or guardians substance abuse problem.

Anyone receiving any government assistance by the State of West Virginia should be randomly drug tested. This, in no way, violates their constitutional rights as we randomly drug test people who work. If a recipient tests positive for substance abuse, they should be placed on a six month probationary period.  At this time, the recipient must enroll in a drug rehab program; at the cost of the recipient.  The recipient must remain drug free during the probationary period and after to continue to receive their benefits.  If the recipient can not remain drug free, they should lose all privileges for government aid for five years and face criminal charges.

It is time that the state of West Virginia, following other states, for example Arizona, Indiana, and Missouri, that have passed such laws.  As national debt continues to spiral out of control, we must make sure that the tax payers dollars are protected and not wasted.

[1] The Finical Burden of Substance in West Virginia: The Welfare System Analyst: Yetty Shobo

Advisors: Dr. Wayne Coombs & Dr. Andy Whisman