NFL changes drug policy, raises levels for positive THC test
The NFL and the league’s players’ union have agreed to change their drug policy, increasing the level of THC in the event of a positive test, according to a memo sent to agents and players Wednesday.
The NFL and the league’s players’ union have agreed to change their drug policy, increasing the level of THC in the event of a positive test, according to a memo sent to agents and players Wednesday.
The positive THC level was increased from 150 ng/ml (nanograms per milliliter) to 350 ng/ml, according to the memo obtained by The Associated Press.
Tetrahydrocannabinol is the substance primarily responsible for the effects of marijuana on a person’s mental state.
Teams will only be informed of the penalty and that the infraction was caused by a positive test and/or a missed test. They will no longer be informed of the substance that caused the positive.
The medical director may test program players for fentanyl if clinically indicated. There will be no discipline in the event of a positive test. However, failure to comply with a mandatory fentanyl meeting will result in a fine of $15,000.
Fines have been reduced for positive tests. The fine for a second missed test increased from a one-game fine to $45,000. The number of missed tests will reset to zero if a period of time passes without any additional missed tests.
All players who currently have pending disciplinary action for missed tests will have those missed tests excused. They will be considered to have no missed tests.
Additionally, language regarding inappropriate use of prescription medications has been clarified.
Players will be fined $15,000 for recording and posting the collection process on social media.
The league and NFLPA also changed the policy regarding performance-enhancing substances.
The testing window from the time of notification to the time of testing has been extended. In certain circumstances, suspended players will be reinstated after a suspension – and therefore paid – even if they still test positive.
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