Are employers allowed to require job applicants to take a drug or alcohol test?

In Virginia, employers are allowed to require job applicants to take a drug or alcohol test as long as the test is given as a part of a pre-employment physical or other medical examination. It is important to note, however, that employers must give all applicants the same test and should not single out a particular applicant due to characteristics such as race, sex, age, or national origin. This is covered under the Virginia Human Rights Act, which makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against job applicants based on any of these characteristics. In addition to abiding by the Virginia Human Rights Act, employers should also ensure they are compliant with the federal Drug-Free Workplace Act and state drug laws, which could vary depending on the nature of the job. Employers should also remember to provide written notice to job applicants if they will be required to take a drug or alcohol test. Overall, employers in Virginia are allowed to require job applicants to take a drug or alcohol test, but they must be mindful of the laws and regulations governing drug and alcohol testing in the state when doing so.

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Are employers allowed to require job applicants to take a drug or alcohol test?

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