NC H735

Requires initial drug testing (minimum 9-drug panel) as a condition of unemployment insurance eligibility, with costs paid by the former employer if they agree; claims proceed normally if employer declines to pay.

Mandates random drug testing for all claimants receiving benefits, with the state covering test costs for passing claimants and failed claimants paying for their own tests from subsequent checks.

Allows claimants to challenge positive test results by submitting to a second test at their own expense within 48-72 hours; benefits resume if the second test is negative.

Suspends benefits for claimants who fail pre-hire or post-offer drug tests required by prospective employers, or who refuse testing, unless they pass treatment participation, use prescribed medication lawfully, or test negative on a state-approved retest.

Establishes Commission authority to adopt rules for acceptable testing laboratories and procedures for receiving and reviewing drug test results.