Amendment would require drug testing for some state officials
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Amendment would require drug testing for some state officials

Date: February 3, 2010
By: Rebecca Berg
State Capitol Bureau

Intro:  The Missouri House delayed debate of a bill Wednesday that would require drug testing for welfare recipients, but an amendment to the bill created controversy on the floor.
RunTime:  0:35
OutCue:  SOC

Wrap: Drug testing was the focus of House debate for the second day in a row -- and again, not much got done.

But Webb City Republican Representative Bryan Stevenson did propose an amendment that would require elected state judges to take drug tests.

Stevenson called the issue common sense.

Actuality:  STEVENS2.WAV
Run Time:  00:10
Description: "I think it is just logical that when I represent my clients in a courtroom, I have a right to expect that the judge sitting on the bench hasn't been taking illegal drugs."

The amendment passed and the main bill will continue to be debated in the coming days.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Rebecca Berg.

Intro:  Drug testing for state judges was the focus of a heated debate Wednesday on the House floor.
RunTime:  0:34
OutCue:  SOC

Wrap: The House has been discussing restricting welfare for illegal drug users.

Now, an amendment would extend drug testing to state judges.

Jackson County Democratic Representative Leonard Hughes was vocal in his opposition.

Actuality:  HUGHES3.WAV
Run Time:  00:14
Description: "This is so far off where we originally started with benefits for needy families, and we're arguing about giving judges a drug test. Let's just get back to what we were talking about, let's stay out of the judiciary, let's deal with legislative issues and let's deal with the policy."

Discussion on the overarching bill will continue in the days to come.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Rebecca Berg.