Fla. Welfare drug testing bill goes to Gov. Scott

A requirement for drug testing of welfare applicants is heading to Gov. Rick Scott who has made the legislation one of his top priorities.

The bill that received a final vote Thursday would require applicants to pay for the tests out of their own pockets but they would be reimbursed if they pass.

The measure received final approval in the Senate on a 26-11 vote with all Republicans for it and all Democrats against it.

Republicans say it's only fair for welfare recipients to be tested because many taxpayers are screened at their place of employment.

Democrats cite a federal court ruling that struck down a drug screening program for welfare recipients in Michigan as a violation of privacy rights.

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