House Bill 1053 – Foley (forensic diversion study committee):
Provides that an individual who has been convicted of a felony involving a controlled substance and has completed or is participating in certain substance abuse treatment programs or mental health programs may receive assistance under the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program for up to 12 months. Requires the department of correction to assist an offender with applying for TANF.
Sounds good to me. Like others, I don’t have a lot of sympathy for people who are in need because they make bad choices rendering them incapable of helping themselves. But, TANF means there are probably kids involved, and this bill would cut such people some slack if they’re trying to get themselves back on track. We’ve taken the punitive measures in the War on (Some) Drugs far enough that it’s abundantly clear that punishment is not enough. I think the jury is still out on how effective rehabilitation is, but clearly a modified approach is necessary.
[tags]HB1053-2007, drugs, welfare[/tags]
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