After much debate and media attention, Florida joins New Jersey and Texas as states that require some form of mandatory high school anti-doping testing. The bill passed yesterday appropriated $100,000 for random tests in 3 sports: football, baseball, and weight lifting. (Jacksonville.com)
Under the program, positive tests will result in a 90-day suspension from athletics but will not facilitate criminal charges or affect academic standing. Athletes who test positive will have a means to appeal, will be subject to regular testing thereafter, and must complete a drug education program. The names of students chosen for testing will not be subject to open-records laws.
The Governor of Florida could barely contain his unbridled enthusiasm at the bill's passage:
When asked about the bill earlier this week, (Governor) Crist said: "I think it's probably OK."
Recent events in Florida showed the state to be a hotbed of steroid and anabolic activity: the Internet pharmacy raids on steroid/HGH distribution from Florida compounding pharmacies; 'roids found in a high school coaches office; Sen Mitchell's probe toured the state during baseball spring training.
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