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Pending Tennessee Drug Testing Bills For Students Need Further Debate

The Tennessee General Assembly is mulling over two random drug testing bills that would target school students who would participate in after school activities. There are two arguments for and against these two testing bills. The prevailing argument for implementing random drug testing of school students is to ensure the overall safety of the student body and school staff. If a solid random drug testing program is conducted properly, random drug testing can do just that, protect all parties involved. The random drug testing program can also serve as a deterrent for substance abuse. The big argument against the drug testing bills is that the proposed legislation does not go far enough to protect the student’s privacy. If a student is suspended from an activity, the student might have to deal with the negative stigma of being labeled a drug user even if that was not the case. If the State of Tennessee is to move forward on these bills, the politicians need to have a lengthy debate and take in consideration both sides of the argument.

SB74/HB1508
Students - As introduced, authorizes random drug testing of students who participate in voluntary extracurricular activities. - Amends TCA Section 49-6-4213.

SB1792/HB2026
Drugs - As introduced, authorizes random drug testing of students who participate in extracurricular activities. - Amends TCA Section 49-6-4213.

Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) is a premier provider of random drug testing solutions and offers affordable and compliant drug testing campaigns. MMC adheres to both the Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal and Non-Federal testing guidelines. For any questions on random drug testing call or email MMC today!
(888) 662-8358
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