A plan to make three state agencies give drug tests to people getting help from a wide range of welfare programs was rejected Tuesday by a South Dakota House panel.

Meanwhile, the Health and Human Services Committee approved a second measure that gives state officials the discretion to conduct random drug screening of people who get cash payments from just one welfare program, known as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. The department would have the option of denying benefits for one year to anyone testing positive for drugs.

Supporters of the measures said drug testing is needed because some people on welfare are using illegal drugs.

"The intent and the philosophy of this bill is if you are going to be receiving tax-supported services, you're going to be drug-free," said Rep. Mark Kirkeby, R-Rapid City, sponsor of the defeated bill.

Kirkeby said his bill would help children by making sure their parents are not using illegal drugs.

"I'm not looking to hurt anybody. I'm trying to help individuals and certainly the citizens and taxpayers of South Dakota," Kirkeby said.

http://www.rapidcityjournal.com/news/state-and-regional/article_cbea7672-a4ef-5ffe-bf07-3d6866524194.html