H.R. 2578: Drug Testing for Special Government Employees Act

This bill, titled the Drug Testing for Special Government Employees Act, establishes requirements for drug testing of special government employees who work in sensitive positions within federal agencies.

Key Provisions

Mandatory Drug Testing

Before starting their job, all new special government employees must pass a drug test in accordance with federal drug testing guidelines. This is aimed at ensuring that individuals entering these roles do not have controlled substances in their system.

Random Drug Testing

Moreover, current special government employees in sensitive positions will be placed in a random drug testing program within 90 days of the bill's enactment. This is intended to maintain a drug-free environment for employees who hold positions of trust and responsibility.

Consequences of Failing Drug Tests

• For Prospective Employees: An individual who tests positive before their appointment will be ineligible for a special government employee position for at least 12 months from the date of the positive result.
• For Current Employees: If a current employee tests positive under the random testing program, they will be removed from their position and will also be ineligible for reappointment for at least 12 months from the date of the positive result.

Definitions

The bill includes definitions for key terms:

• Controlled substance: Refers to drugs defined in the Controlled Substances Act.
• Agency: Covers federal agencies, including the Executive Office of the President and the Office of Management and Budget.
• Sensitive position: Encompasses roles that access classified information, impact security, or require a high level of trust, including those designated as mission critical.
• Special government employee: Defined as per the existing federal statute.

Implementation Timeline

The bill mandates that newly appointed special government employees undergo drug testing before their first day. The random drug testing program for existing employees must be established within 90 days after the bill becomes law.

Impact on Employment

The provisions aim to enhance security and trust in sensitive positions by ensuring compliance with drug-free standards, which could affect the hiring and continued employment of individuals in these roles.

Relevant Companies

None found