Florida State Drug Testing Laws

Workplace Drug Testing Issues – Florida State Laws

These categories do no effect DOT-regulated drug testing. Government employers should always call for potential additional restrictions on employee drug testing.

Florida generally has no restrictions for employment drug testing. Companies that wish to qualify for a 5% discount on their workers’ compensation premiums must comply with the Florida Drug Free Workplace Program (Florida Statutes 440.102).  Employers receiving state construction contracts shall be required to participate in the Florida Drug Free Workplace Program. This includes electrical contractors and alarm system contractors.

Drug Testing IssueStatusComments
Instant or POCT Testing RestrictionsConfirmation testing at a SAMHSA and/or Florida Agency for Healthcare Administration (AHCA) licensed lab is required.
Drug PanelsRestrictionsUp to standard 10 panel test.
LaboratoryLicensing requirementsAHCA or SAMHSA certified laboratories required.
Medical Review Officer (MRO)RequiredResults must be reported from lab to MRO and then to employer.
Random TestingNo RestrictionsOptional except for DOT required testing
Post-Accident RequiredMust follow requirements of Florida Drug Free Workplace Program
Reasonable SuspicionRequiredMust follow requirements of Florida Drug Free Workplace Program
Oral Fluid Testing RestrictionsNot allowed for the Florida Drug Free Workplace Program
Hair TestingNo RestrictionsAllowed for the Florida Drug Free Workplace Program
Unemployment DenialYes, address in company policyState in your drug free workplace policy that a refusal to test or a positive test is misconduct. Terminate employment for misconduct.
Workers Comp DiscountYes, available 5% DiscountSee General Statute links below
Intoxication DefenseYes440.09 - Compensation is not payable if the injury was occasioned primarily by the intoxication of the employee; by the influence of any drugs, barbiturates, or other stimulants not prescribed by a physician; or by the willful intention of the employee to injure or kill himself, herself, or another.
Medical Marijuana YesAmendment 2 passed on November 2016. No requirement for accommodation of on-site medical use of marijuana in any place of employment. Drug testing or drug free workplace are not mentioned in the amendment.
Recreational Marijuana No
Report Driver DOT Positives NoUse FMCSA Clearinghouse
General Statute--See below Florida Drug Free Workplace Program

Florida Drug Free Workplace Program – Florida WC Code 440.102 and Florida Admin. Code 59A-24 et al.

Intoxication Defense

Worker’s comp claims can be denied in Florida when there is a positive drug or alcohol test after an accident. Certain rules apply. Chapter 440.09 of the workers’ compensation statute states: “Compensation is not payable if the injury was occasioned primarily by the intoxication of the employee; by the influence of any drugs, barbiturates, or other stimulants not prescribed by a physician; or by the willful intention of the employee to injure or kill himself, herself, or another.” A comprehensive drug free workplace program is always advised to take advantage of this provision of the law.

Denial of Unemployment Benefits

Unemployment claims can be denied in Florida when the employee is terminated for a positive drug test. Certain rules apply. The Florida employer must be participating in the Florida Drug Free Workplace Program (Florida Statutes 440.102) in order for the unemployment benefits to be denied. In an unemployment hearing, compliance with the Florida Drug Free Workplace Program (Florida Statutes 440.102) will be verified including request of the employers’ written drug free workplace policy.

Medical Marijuana is Legal in Florida

Florida statutes allow medical marijuana, a marijuana card is issued for individuals that have certain medical conditions. The Florida Statute (381.956) does specifically provide language that that an employer is not required accommodate the medical use of marijuana in any workplace or any employee working while under the influence of marijuana. With little case law on this subject in Florida, employers are advised to use caution when refusing to hire a potential employee or firing an employee based on a positive marijuana test and the employer has an authorized medical marijuana card.  Another option in Florida as in all states is to remove marijuana from the drug testing panel.

This chart is intended for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon for legal guidance. State and local law varies greatly; therefore, you are advised to consult experienced legal counsel during the design of your actual substance abuse testing program and with any questions that follow.

State Law Florida

 

Drug Testing in Florida

Testing locations are available in all areas. For immediate service for employers or individuals call 866-843-4545 or Order Now.

Marijuana Laws for Florida

Marijuana considerations are important and marijuana laws often update often, check out Marijuana in the Workplace.