Workplace Drug Testing Laws for Connecticut

Connecticut has enacted a specific statute that set requirements to private employer drug and alcohol testing.

The importance of an individual’s privacy rights was the key root of the testing in the statute because the only reason allowed for testing is under reasonable suspicion; the statute also explicitly states that employee or prospective employee shall not be supervised while providing specimen.

Random testing in mentioned in the statute but is only under specific requirements. An employer who violates the statute may be sued by the employee or prospective employee and awarded damages.

Employers should also keep in mind that the state has passed its own Medical Marijuana Act, therefore should avoid discriminating against an individual who retains a Medical Marijuana Card.

Under case law, courts have interpreted that individuals who are discharged for testing positive for Marijuana and hold a medical card have a right to a cause of action against an employer. Before drafting a drug testing policy private employers should review all rules and regulations to ensure they are following the state laws.