NCJ Number
120155
Journal
Journal of Law and Health Volume: 2 Issue: 1 Dated: (1987-1988) Pages: 39-66
Date Published
1987
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the constitutional implications for municipalities undertaking the screening of government workers for drug use.
Abstract
While government employees may not have as great an expectation of privacy as employees in the private sector, they are protected by the fourteenth amendment to the U.S. Constitution, and their employers are bound to protect them from unreasonable searches and seizures and to ensure that their due process, equal protection, and privacy rights are given full consideration. The constitutional considerations are discussed in detail, with relevant citations to case law. Additionally, when ruling on the constitutionality of a drug testing program for certain types of government employees, the courts will examine job functions, the expectations of privacy for workers in the group, and the means by which the drug test is carried out. Federal, State, and common law implications for litigation challenging drug testing are also discussed, as are local ordinances limiting drug testing. Specific concerns for public employers to consider before establishing drug testing programs are detailed.