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Quest Diagnostics Drug Testing Index Analysis

Quest Diagnostics recently conducted a drug testing index analysis of almost 10 million drug tests, and the results may just surprise you. Drug testing in recent years has been historically high, and that fact still holds true. Marijuana positivity continues its rise in positivity in post-accident and the general workforce or office work but decreased in federally mandated safety sensitive industries. In the states with legalized recreational marijuana, positivity has risen in professional office industries. The substantial increase of substituted and invalid specimens received indicate that workforce drug test cheating has grown in 2023.

"Organizations must have sound policy and procedures to ensure employee drug testing programs have efficacy. Cheating on drug tests not only undermines workplace safety but also jeopardizes the safety of society as a whole," said Katie Mueller, a senior program manager at the National Safety Council focusing on cannabis safety.

Pre-Employment Drug Testing Legislation

Pre-employment testing is customary practice and legal in most jurisdictions. State legislation can vary from state to state, so you must do your homework to ensure you are compliant. It is also important to keep up to date on legislative changes and trends.

Legislation passed which prohibits New York City employers from testing job candidates for marijuana as a condition of employment. Exceptions exist for federal or state contract or grants and for safety and security sensitive jobs. Once the mayor signs the legislation, the law will take effect one year after enactment.

An Iowa court decision  validates how important it is to keep up on the nuances of drug testing laws in your jurisdiction. Iowa state’s drug testing law, Iowa Code Section 730.5 is among the most technical drug testing laws in the nation.

This example demonstrates how important it is to keep up to date on drug screening regulations to ensure your processes are compliant.

Choice Screening Drug Testing Program

We are partnered with three of the most experienced leaders in substance and alcohol abuse testing: LabCorp Solutions, Quest Diagnostics, and eScreen. There are over 15,000 testing sites collectively, online scheduling, MRO service, and integration into our system to create fast turnarounds!

The drug testing process is simple! The applicant or employee will go to a collection site to submit a specimen. The collection site performs initial testing to confirm the validity of the specimen. The specimen is then sent to a lab to be tested. Negative results are returned within a few days of specimen collection. Positive results are reviewed by a Medical Review Officer to confirm permissible use.

Contact our team of experts today to start incorporating drug testing into your background screening process.

This communication is intended for Choice Screening's current or prospective clients and partners and may not be forwarded outside of Choice Screening, posted online, or otherwise reprinted in whole or in part. 

The information contained in this newsletter is not all encompassing and is meant to be informative only, nor contains legal advice, expressed or implied. Consult with qualified legal counsel in all matters of employment, business, and background screening law.