Lawmakers weigh drug testing themselves: 'This is a really cynical approach to the Legislature'

PIERRE — A legislative panel on Wednesday voted down a proposal to require members of the Legislature take mandatory drug tests.

The House State Affairs Committee on an 11-2 vote deferred action on House Bill 1133 to the 41st legislative day, effectively tabling the bill.

Supporters of the bill said the proposal was aimed at demonstrating leadership in the Legislature and providing evidence to voters that lawmakers aren't using drugs during their time in Pierre.

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Under the bill those who refused to take the test and those who are found to have used illegal substances without a physician's approval would be reported to legislative leaders for disciplinary action.

"To me, this is just putting your money where your mouth is and taking a leadership role saying if we're going to make all these other people take drug tests we're going to do it too," said Rep. Dan Kaiser, R-Aberdeen.

Opponents, meanwhile, said the bill's aim was contrived and unnecessary.

"This is a really cynical approach to the Legislature," said Rep. David Lust, R-Rapid City. "And it’s either based on cynicism or grandstanding, and in either case, it's wholly inappropriate to bring to this body."

The bill's twin, Senate Bill 168, is set to come before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday.

Follow Dana Ferguson on Twitter @bydanaferguson, call 605-370-2493 or email dferguson@argusleader.com