Federal & State Regulations | Drug-free workplace - Iowa

State Info

Summary of differences between federal and state regulations

The federal Drug-Free Workplace Act, which applies only to federal contractors and grantees, requires adoption of Drug-Free Workplace rules to do business with the government. It neither requires nor prohibits drug testing. States are free to adopt whatever regulations they deem appropriate for public or private employers. Where states have drug testing provisions as part of their Drug Free Workplace Acts, drug testing information is included in this section. Where states have separate drug testing provisions that are not part of a Drug Free Workplace Act, these are covered under the section on “Drug Testing.”

Private-Sector Drug Free Workplaces

Iowa’s law applies to private employers of one or more full time employees, and authorizes random, reasonable suspicion, pre-employment, and post-accident testing. Employers may also test during and after completion of drug or alcohol rehabilitation. All employees must be given a copy of the employer’s written policy. A positive test, or a refusal to test, may result in discipline or refusal to hire. Employers who develop, implement and maintain programs in accordance with the provisions of the act are provided with immunity against any causes of action arising against the employer for actions taken pursuant to the program.