NCJ Number
116377
Journal
University of Kansas Law Review Volume: 36 Issue: 4 Dated: (Summer 1988) Pages: 699-754
Date Published
1988
Length
56 pages
Annotation
This analysis of Federal efforts to stop illegal drug use in the workplace notes that the drug testing program is only one of several strategies that also include enhanced drug interdiction, increased education concerning the adverse effects of illegal drug use, the effective treatment and rehabilitation of drug abusers, and increased public awareness of the problem.
Abstract
On September 15, 1986, President Reagan issued Executive Order 12564, which mandated a drug-free Federal workplace and called for executive agencies to develop and implement a comprehensive drug prevention program that is humane, responsible, and effective. The Executive Order represents one component of six major initiatives undertaken by the President. It recognizes that the use of illegal drugs by Americans is a serious national problem, threatening not only the lives of those who use drugs but also imposing tremendous social and economic costs on society as a whole and employers in particular. The order makes each agency responsible for planning for a drug-free workplace in a manner that provides for due consideration of the rights of the employee and the government. The order authorizes random, voluntary, and reasonable-suspicion testing. The Department of Health and Human Services has developed guidelines to ensure the accuracy of the test results. 274 footnotes and summaries of legislation and judicial decisions.