Drug testing is a common requirement across various sectors in Indiana to ensure safety, compliance with law, and workforce integrity. However, some individuals attempt to manipulate or falsify drug test results through different means, such as synthetic urine or adulterants.
Recognizing this, Indiana has taken legislative action to crack down on these practices by criminalizing possession or use of substances or devices that interfere with drug or alcohol screening tests. Starting from 2024, such offenses can be classified as misdemeanors with fines and possible jail time.
Legal Framework: Possession of Devices or Substances to Cheat Drug Tests
Under Indiana Code § 35-43-5-18, a person who knowingly possesses any device or substance designed to interfere with a drug or alcohol screening commits a Class B misdemeanor.
This law explicitly targets synthetic urine and similar products meant to falsify drug test outcomes. As a Class B misdemeanor, individuals caught face potential penalties that may include hefty fines and jail time, signaling the state’s serious stance against cheating drug tests.
Wider Context in the U.S. and Indiana
Indiana is among several states that have passed laws specifically addressing synthetic urine and similar products used for cheating on drug tests. For instance, states like Texas, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Illinois have their respective laws, some imposing fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 and jail terms up to several years for offenses related to drug test fraud…