Mark Fairchild. Photo courtesy of LinkedIn.

An Indiana House committee passed legislation that would require drug testing for some welfare recipients, despite  objections from Democrats and officials such as National Association of Social Workers Indiana Chapter Executive Director Mark Fairchild.

Republicans said the legislation would get help for people with drug addictions who are applying for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. Applicants who indicated they had a drug problem would not be prosecuted but referred to treatment programs.

However, Fairchild said many drug abusers need intensive programs that are expensive and in short supply. And free programs are often less effective, he said.

“Simply giving them a list of options that are available will not work,” he said. “Those high-intensity options that are needed are in very short supply across Indiana – private pay, Medicaid or otherwise. Simply getting admitted into those can take well in excess of 30 days.”

Visit the National Association of Social Workers’ “Help Starts Here” Addictions website to learn more about how social workers help people overcome addiction.