Gov. Scott Walker's proposal making Wisconsin the first state to require drug tests to receive Medicaid health benefits has won approval from the Legislature's budget-writing committee.
The Joint Finance Committee on Thursday voted to give itself oversight and final approval on Walker's plans to drug-test able-bodied, childless adult Medicaid applicants. There would also be a drug test requirement for food stamp recipients.
Democratic opponents argue the drug testing would be unconstitutional.
Walker is also seeking federal approval for the drug testing and new work requirements for Medicaid and food stamp recipients.
The committee approved Walker's plans on a 12-4 vote, with all Republicans in support and Democrats against. It's now a part of the state budget that the full Legislature will vote on later this summer.
