Florida high school athletes subject to random testing for anabolic steroids
One percent of Florida high school athletes in weight lifting, baseball, and football will be subject to random testing for anabolic steroids under a one-year pilot program that has been approved by the state legislature and that Governor Charlie Crist indicates he will sign into law. The Florida High School Athletics Association (FHSAA) will oversee the tests of all of its 426 public and 224 private member schools. The bill includes $100,000 to pay for the testing. Any athlete who refuses to provide a urine sample will be ineligible to remain on the team. Those who test positive would be suspended from the team, but could be reinstated if they pass a follow-up test later. FHSAA officials have not commented on the bill. However, New Jersey became the first state to start a testing policy for high school athletes last year. According to its state athletic association, the initial testing for performance-enhancing drugs found no users among 150 random samples.
Sarasota Herald-Tribune
By Anna Scott
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KABC TV Los Angeles
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[Editor’s Note: Information on similar legislation pending is Texas is posted below.]
[NSBA School Law Pages on Texas legislation]