Big Dave
31st August 2006, 17:08
Drivers face random drug tests
Random drug testing is about to hit NSW roads with police using new technology to catch drivers who have used cannabis, ecstasy and speed.
Police Minister Carl Scully said police officers would conduct the saliva tests with portable screening machines.
But the blitz will be limited. Only one drug testing van will be rolled out for the entire state.
And police will not be able to test for cocaine or heroin as traces of those drugs might be confused with codeine legally used in cold and flu medicines.
First-time offenders will lose their driver's licences for up to six months and face fines of $1100. Others could face unlimited licence suspensions and prison sentences of up to nine months.
Mr Scully said the program would target long-haul truck drivers initially.
It should be up and running within three months after legislation passes through State Parliament.
Premier Morris Iemma said all drivers and motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes would be obliged to undergo blood tests.
Driver's licence fees will rise by $1.50 a year to pay for the anti-drug program.
- with AAP
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/drivers-face-random-drug-tests/2006/08/31/1156817008617.html
Random drug testing is about to hit NSW roads with police using new technology to catch drivers who have used cannabis, ecstasy and speed.
Police Minister Carl Scully said police officers would conduct the saliva tests with portable screening machines.
But the blitz will be limited. Only one drug testing van will be rolled out for the entire state.
And police will not be able to test for cocaine or heroin as traces of those drugs might be confused with codeine legally used in cold and flu medicines.
First-time offenders will lose their driver's licences for up to six months and face fines of $1100. Others could face unlimited licence suspensions and prison sentences of up to nine months.
Mr Scully said the program would target long-haul truck drivers initially.
It should be up and running within three months after legislation passes through State Parliament.
Premier Morris Iemma said all drivers and motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes would be obliged to undergo blood tests.
Driver's licence fees will rise by $1.50 a year to pay for the anti-drug program.
- with AAP
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/drivers-face-random-drug-tests/2006/08/31/1156817008617.html