Democrats complained the measure would invade applicants' privacy and do little to save money. Some contended it was an election-year move that has little chance in the Democrat-run House.
The bill passed, 20-17, after failing last week by one vote. A related measure to permit drug testing of welfare recipients was again delayed to drum up more support for the bill.
Republicans argued the first bill - which calls for computerized finger imaging rather than traditional ink-and-pad fingerprinting - is intended to discourage fraud by detecting those who seek benefits they aren't entitled to.
03-26-98
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