Lawmakers are discussing a proposal to include an oral fluid test in preemployment drug screening. Rep. Kelly Moller sponsors this proposal, aiming to solve the time and travel issues related to the current drug and alcohol testing in certified labs. Moller believes that lab test delays often push potential employees to look for jobs elsewhere, preventing immediate employment for those who would pass the tests.
The proposed bill, HF3516, was introduced to the House Labor and Industry Finance and Policy Committee. It proposes that an oral fluid test, detecting drugs, alcohol, cannabis, or their metabolites from a saliva sample, could be an alternative for employers. If the oral test results are unclear or positive, the applicant would still need lab testing within 48 hours to stay eligible for the job.
Todd Gaynor, general manager for Veyer Logistics, backs the proposal. He stated that many potential employees find it hard to travel to an off-site testing facility. Gaynor mentioned that many job offers from his company are not finalized due to incomplete drug testing. He also highlighted that 39 other states already allow oral fluid testing.