[Orlando, FL] A federal judge in Orlando has put a stop – at least temporarily – to Gov. Rick Scott‘s highly touted (and highly controversial) requirement that those seeking cash assistance from the state take a drug test at their own expense.
On Monday, Judge Mary Scriven issued the ruling based on her opinion that the new law may be a violation of the Constitution’s ban on unreasonable searches and seizures, according to a report by The Huffington Post. The judge will hold a full hearing on the law, but until then – the tests will not be required.
“This potential interception of positive drug tests by law enforcement implicates a ‘far more substantial’ invasion of privacy than in ordinary civil drug testing cases,” said Scriven, an appointee of President George W. Bush.
Gov. Scott’s office, which touted huge savings and a moral triumph from the welfare reform law, cannot be pleased.
“The governor obviously disagrees with the decision and he will evaluate his options regarding when to appeal,” Scott spokesperson Jackie Schutz was quoted as saying by The Huffington Post.
By: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate
Image: Mark Christopher/Sunshine Slate Images
Resource: The Huffington Post
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