With regard to the results of our first month in the program, we cautioned that one month’s data was insufficient and not enough volume for us to draw any conclusions from the fact that 8 percent tested positive. All the results of the tests have not been returned, and the number may or may not change. But even if only 8 percent of our households have a problem significant enough to warrant treatment, that is 8 percent who would not get a job with an employer who tests for drugs as a condition of employment. That is 8 percent whose families would continue to live in an environment fraught with all the dangers that accompany substance abuse. It is far too early to draw any conclusions about cost effectiveness.

Substance abuse keeps people from getting, keeping or progressing on a job. It is a fact that drug testing by employers in Michigan is common. People who test positive for drugs don’t get hired. In Berrien County, one of the pilot sites, estimates range as high as 80 percent of the employers requiring drug testing as a condition of employment. The state should not send individuals who are substance abusers to these employers if we know they will fail. Instead, the state is offering treatment.

Let’s face it, there is more at stake here than a job. The families of substance abusers pay a hefty price for that abuse, and our caseload is comprised of families . . . families that have children. If we can help families eliminate the barrier of substance abuse and get a job, we have served them doubly. A substance abuse free family is a much stronger family.

Clearly we do not believe that this policy violates the constitution. Congress would not have allowed it, we would not have proposed it and the Michigan legislature would not have passed it. Constitutionality can only be determined by an impartial court system. Our policy to test, provide assessment and treatment to those in need of public assistance is compassionate and is the right thing to do.