NCJ Number
125311
Date Published
1990
Length
11 pages
Annotation
The random drug-testing programs at the Department of the Army, the Department of Transportation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) were examined to identify the differences in employer actions when employees test positive for illegal drugs as well as to determine the basis for these actions.
Abstract
Records and documents related to drug testing activities at the three agencies were reviewed, and officials associated with the drug-testing programs were interviewed during the November 1988 to December 1989 period. Employees who tested positive for illegal drugs at DESCOM were offered rehabilitation, but subsequent actions varied within the agency. Some employees who tested positive twice for illegal drugs were fired, and an employee who refused rehabilitation also was fired. Other employees were reassigned permanently or demoted to positions in which they were no longer subject to random drug testing. Department of Transportaion policy maintains that employees who test positive for illegal drugs are to be offered rehabilitation; the employee who refuses rehabilitation is to be fired, and a second positive drug test at any time after completion of rehabilitation results in immediate removal. Officials at DEA reported that the agency fires employees found to use illegal drugs, except in unusual circumstances, although policy states that a range of disciplinary actions is available. 4 appendixes.