Drug-Testing Bill Approved In Senate

Legislation setting out general guidelines for employee drug testing by businesses has cleared the Idaho Senate, but those wanting a financial incentive for businesses to conduct testing say changes will be made by the House.

The bill approved overwhelming by the Senate on Friday is backed by the Idaho Association of Commerce and Industry. It allows businesses establishing a clear testing policy meeting the guidelines to fire workers for cause if they fail the test, thus denying them jobless benefits.

The bill has no effect on testing and workers’ compensation benefits, which has created substantial debate.

Supporters maintain that as long as the alcohol and drug policies of an employer are clearly stated and the employee knows them, the consequences are fair.

Competing legislation originally killed in a House committee provided a 5 percent reduction on unemployment insurance premiums to companies adopting drug and alcohol testing. It was being pushed by a Meridian businessman who conducts the tests.

, DataTimes