Jan. 22, 2009

Ross introduces bill to allow mandatory police drug testing

Today, Rep. Charles Ross, R-Naches, introduced a proposal to allow drug testing for police officers. House Bill 1511 would give local communities the authority to require mandatory, random drug testing of law enforcement personnel.

"Police work is dangerous and difficult, so it's vital that officers be thinking clearly and be able to react quickly to changing situations," Ross said. "We expect police officers to obey the law, and I am sure the vast majority of them do. At the same time, the public has a right to hold police officers accountable, just as many corporations do with their employees."

If passed, the bill would not impose a statewide mandate. Instead, it would allow local voters to decide if their local police or sheriff's departments should be subject to random drug testing. If passed by the people, the mandatory drug testing would begin within one year of the election.

"Sending the proposal to the voters gives communities an opportunity to have an open dialogue about the issue," Ross said. "I think citizens are concerned that the duties of the job -- carrying lethal weapons, driving at high rates of speed, and making quick decisions -- could put the public at risk if a police officer is under the influence." 

Ross said he looks forward to a hearing on the bill.

# # #

For more information, contact:  Sarah Lamb, Public Information Officer - (360) 786-7720