A state technical college in Missouri has an unusual requirement for new students: pass a mandatory drug test.
Linn State Technical College — a 1,200-student school in Linn, Missouri — instituted the program this week, the AP reports. Associate Dean of Student Affairs Richard Pemberton said the drug tests are a way to prepare students for the professional world.
“They’re going to be faced with this as they go into the drug-free workplace,” he told the AP. “We want them to be prepared.”
Pemberton did not immediately return TPM’s request for further comment. The drug test costs $50, paid for by students, and it screens for cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana and other drugs. If a student fails the test, he or she is put on probation and has the option to take another test a later date, while staying on probation. But why force the drug tests at all?
“The mission of LSTC is to prepare students for profitable employment and a life of learning,” the college’s drug screening FAQ says. “Drug screening is becoming an increasingly important part of the world of work. It is also believed it will better provide a safe, healthy, and productive environment for everyone who learns and works at LSTC by detecting, preventing, and deterring drug use and abuse among students.”
Naturally, the program has raised a few eyebrows. Dan Viets, a lawyer and member of the Missouri Civil Liberties Association, said “They’re trying to break new ground here. I don’t think the courts will uphold it.”
Read the rest here.
David Taintor
David Taintor is TPM’s News Editor. He contributes to TPM’s Livewire coverage, among other areas. David is from Chanhassen, Minnesota, where, yes, it gets very cold. Reach him at taintor [at] talkingpointsmemo.com
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