The idea of ​​helping others is not a new concept. There are always people who need a little extra help from time to time to get ahead. The primary concept of welfare in the United States has existed since the 1800s for this very reason: to assist those in need. Over the last 5 years or so, many have recognized a trend in welfare recipients and want answers. Legislation has been filed left and right regarding whether or not individuals receiving assistance must undergo drug testing to receive benefits from welfare programs. In 2014, this particular issue took precedence over many other issues facing the United States. States. Many believe drug testing recipients is unconstitutional, while others believe it is no different than getting a job. As the proposed state law has shown, the majority of citizens feel they are being exploited by beneficiaries and want justification. Therefore, the U.S. government should require drug testing for people applying for welfare in order to prevent fraud against taxpaying citizens. History of Welfare The history of welfare and its existence dates back to the early 1800s. The idea of ​​helping others who were unable to work came to the US colonies from the British Poor Laws. These laws helped individuals and families who were struggling to pay bills and put food on their tables. Typically, assistance lasted only until the individual or family could find a solution to their problems or until one of them was physically fit enough to find a job. This type of assistance lasted until the 1930s, when the Great Depression hit the economy and new l... middle of paper... day came here and bought groceries with their food stamp cards. I struggle as a single mother. I drive an old car and can barely make ends meet. I can't get food stamps because they say I make too much money, but how is that possible when the people I sell groceries to come in nearly new cars and buy carts full of expensive food with their food stamp cards? Some of them also adopt the cash refund option. “Many states have implemented systems where people can report welfare abuse. Whistleblower laws have been enacted to protect people who report abuse, and in some cases the whistleblower may receive a reward for his or her efforts. According to the testimony from Elizabeth Stelle, these types of programs could help reduce costs for people who take advantage of the system and could ultimately save the state and federal government a lot of money (Stella)