News
Bill Would Require Drug Testing Of Lawmakers
By: Associated Press
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A Democratic state lawmaker has introduced a bill requiring drug-testing of Ohio's lawmakers.
The Dayton Daily News reports the proposal has the same goals as a bill requiring similar testing of welfare recipients.
Sen. Nina Turner, of Cleveland, says if people getting welfare need to be tested for illegal drugs, then so do members of the state Legislature.
Under the proposal, lawmakers would be screened for exhibiting signs of drug abuse once each year – or more often if selected during four random drawings each year.
Lawmakers who test positive would be removed from any office or chairmanship and not get paid until they test clean, plus be required to complete a drug and alcohol abuse program.
A similar proposal died last session in the Republican-dominated Legislature.