COLUMBUS (Tom Bosco) -- Two state lawmakers said they will attempt to introduce a bill to mandate drug screening and testing for applicants for state benefits, despite the failure of similar measures in the past. State Rep. Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) said the goal is to get users treatment and get them back into the workforce.

"I think we will save untold millions by getting these families healed and getting them back into the economy," Schaffer said.

If the measure passes, it woujld force applicants to take a screening questionaire which could lead to the applicant being forced to take a drug test. A positive test would lead to the applicant being referred to treatment. The applicant's family however would still receive state benefits.

"The whole key here is to make sure the benefits go to the right person so we can keep that family together and get treatment to the person who needs treatment," said Rep. Ron Maag (R-Lebanon).

The lawmakers worry that taxpayer money, in the form of state benefits, are going to drug dealers and say this measure would stop that.

"The money will no longer be going down the street to the local drug dealer and purchasing illegal drugs with taxpayer money," said Schaffer.

But the American Civil Liberties Union doesn't like the plan, saying it perpetuates the stereotype that those on welfare are drug users.

"It's not just people who get public assistance that struggle with drug addiction, its many people in the population," said Lisa Wurm of the ACLU. She said if the measure passes, the ACLU will seriously consider legal action to fight it.