REPRESENTATIVE Stanley T. Torres had himself tested for illegal drugs at Marianas Medical Center yesterday. He wants all lawmakers to do the same, especially those who sponsored a resolution requiring government appointees to undergo a standardized drug test required of government employees.
“I responded to the call of Senate Resolution 13-1. Now I challenge all senators, especially the resolution’s sponsors and even my colleagues at the House of Representatives. They should cleanse themselves first or at least have proof that they are clean before requiring others to do so,” said Torres, R-Saipan.
Last Feb. 11, the Senate adopted a resolution stating that the Senate “shall not give its advice and consent to appointees who refuse to be tested for illicit drugs or are found to have consumed or are consuming illicit drugs without a medically compelling reason.”
The senators said the proficient delivery of public services requires that heads of departments and agencies be physically and mentally sound to direct and facilitate their functions and operations.
Torres said if legislators really mean what they say, then they should be the “first ones doing what they preach.” “Leaders should lead, not just in words, but through deeds. And I hope all of us in the Legislature will be that kind of a leader,” he added.
