Orlando, FL (AP) - A legal challenge to a Florida law
requiring drug testing of welfare applicants now is a class action
case.

U.S. District Judge Mary Scriven on Wednesday in Orlando granted
a class action request.

It was sought by the American Civil Liberties Union, which is
representing Orlando resident Luis Lebron in the case.

The certification will let the challenge continue on behalf of
all applicants for temporary assistance even if Lebron himself
becomes ineligible.

Scriven previously issued an order temporarily blocking
implementation of the law championed by Gov. Rick Scott.

The state is appealing the order that put testing on hold until
Scriven can hold a full hearing.

She found the law may violate a constitutional ban on unreasonable searches and seizures.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)