SB440 Summary

• Proposes constitutional amendment to Section 47 of the Alabama Constitution requiring drug testing of state legislators when reasonable suspicion exists that they may be using controlled substances.

• Requires newly elected legislators to certify upon taking office whether they have been convicted of any crime related to illegal controlled substance use within the previous five years.

• Defines "reasonable suspicion" as existing only when a legislator has a conviction for possession or use of an illegal controlled substance within five years prior to election.

• Subjects legislators meeting the reasonable suspicion standard to periodic drug screenings at intervals determined by their legislative body, with all testing costs paid by the legislator being tested.

• Requires positive test results to be referred to the appropriate legislative committee governing internal affairs of the respective chamber.