Rick Scott Backs Drug Tests for State Employees and Welfare Recipients

On Tuesday, Gov. Rick Scott announced a new executive order, mandating drug tests for all prospective new hires of agencies within the governors purview and random drug tests for established employees in those offices.

Floridians deserve to know that those in public service, whose salaries are paid with taxpayer dollars, are part of a drug-free workplace, Scott said in a statement. Just as it is appropriate to screen those seeking taxpayer assistance, it is also appropriate to screen government employees.

Scott also praised a measure in the Legislature which would require that welfare recipients face drug testing.

I want to commend Senators Steve Oelrich and Paula Dockery, and Representatives Jimmie Smith and Chris Dorworth, for their hard work on this issue, Scott said. Todays committee passage by the Senate of Senate Bill 556 has advanced this important policy, and I look forward to the House moving their legislation tomorrow.