Judge Sees Problem With Drug Testing Law
A Los Angeles Superior Court judge has tentatively ruled that portions of Glendale’s sweeping drug testing policy violate constitutional rights to privacy but that some testing is needed to protect public safety.
In a 50-page preliminary opinion issued Tuesday, Judge Ernest G. Williams found that the city should halt its 5-year-old policy of requiring mandatory drug tests for all job applicants and all candidates seeking promotion. But Williams said he expects to take a “middle ground” stance that would permit drug testing for police officers and some other employees.
Both the city and the American Civil Liberties Union, which filed the suit in 1986, will have an opportunity to further argue their positions before a final ruling.
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