California Ballot Measure: Drug Test Doctors?

California voters may be asked whether doctors should be subject to random drug and alcohol tests.

A proposed ballot measure would also impose heavy disciplinary action if doctors are found to be impaired during work hours. The California Secretary of State’s Office reports that the proponent has submitted the proper paperwork, and can now begin collecting needed signatures to place it on the ballot. The measure is being pushed by tech mogul Bob Pack, who was a previous executive with AOL and Net Zero. It is being referred to as the “pee in the cup” initiative. It would impose tests similar to those that are currently given to bus drivers.

The Secretary of State’s Office reports the ballot measure would also require health care practitioners to consult a state prescription drug history database before prescribing certain controlled substances. In addition, it would increase the cap on pain and suffering damages in medical negligence lawsuits to account for inflation.