Rules Proposed For Employer Drug Testing

Guidelines to cover employer-ordered drug testing could surface in next month’s opening of the Idaho Legislature.

If the guidelines become law, employers whose drug-testing rules meet standards would get discounted insurance premiums and other benefits.

One proposal being drafted is from Minert and Associates, a Meridian company that does drug testing. It has Sen. Hal Bunderson, R-Meridian, and Rep. Mark Stubbs, R-Twin Falls, as co-sponsors.

Another is being drafted by the Idaho Association of Commerce and Industry. They may be presented separately to the Legislature, or combined.

Drug testing policies are common, but the Legislature hasn’t addressed the issue. Guidelines are in place for employees of some federal agencies.

Under both proposals, compliance is voluntary. Employers would receive a 5 percent reduction in worker compensation insurance premiums if their policies met state standards.