Are employers allowed to require a drug test?

Yes, employers in North Carolina are allowed to require drug tests from potential and current employees. North Carolina law states that employers may test employees and job applicants for illegal drug use as long as certain requirements are met. Employers are required to give employees and job applicants at least two days’ notice before the drug test unless the test is part of a related investigation. Employers are also required to provide test results to employees and job applicants and must keep the results confidential. Employers may not require drug tests solely based on an individual’s religion or nationality. Employers may not require drug tests based on an individual’s disability or perceived disability. Employers also may not require testing as a condition of employment and cannot test individuals who have been on leave due to a disability, such as pregnancy. Drug tests can be an effective tool for employers to ensure their workplace is drug-free, so it is important for employers to understand the legal requirements in North Carolina. Employers should carefully review all laws related to drug testing before requiring tests from their employees and job applicants.

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