THE NFL DRUG PROPOSAL : TAKING ACTION AGAINST DRUGS

National Basketball Assn.

If there is suspicion of drug use, a third party evaluates evidence. If there is reasonable cause, four tests are given over a period of six weeks. If any of the tests is positive, the player can be banned for life. A player treated for drug use more than three times may be banned for a minimum of two years. A player banned for life may petition for re-entry to the league after two years.

STATUS The NBA’s drug testing policy is part of its 1983 collective bargaining agreement. The agreement expires in June of 1987.

Professional Baseball

No drug testing of major league players. There is some random testing of front-office personnel and in the minor leagues.

STATUS The Commissioner’s office wants mandatory testing, but the Players Assn. doesn’t. The outcome may be decided when arbitrator rules on interpretation of current collective bargaining agreement; decision possibly as early as next week.

National Hockey League

There is no drug testing program. The league and the NHL Players Assn. have proposed a mandatory drug testing program for next season, including treatment and counseling.

STATUS The proposal requires approval from NHL owners and the players. A new collective bargaining agreement is currently under negotiation.

National Football League

The program outlined by Commissioner Pete Rozelle includes two random tests during the season. A drug test will continue to be administered during training camp physical exams. Players testing positive for drugs three times will be banned from the league for a minimum of one year.

STATUS The NFL PLayers Assn. announced its members would not abide by the league’s plan and called for meetings with the commissioner.

NCAA

Passed legislation in January authorizing testing at championship events and football bowl games.

STATUS One-hundred-five schools say they test for drugs in some manner.