HOUSE APPROVES WORKPLACE ANTI-DRUG LEGISLATION

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Small businesses would get financial incentives and
technical aid to adopt drug-free workplace programs under legislation
approved by the House Tuesday.

The measure, approved 402-9, is part of a package of anti-drug bills the
Republican leadership has made a top priority over the past month.

Sponsored by Rep. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, the bill encourages states to provide
financial benefits to small businesses that meet minimum standards for
drug-free workplaces.

Portman helped develop a program in his home state that reduces workers'
compensation insurance premiums by up to 20 percent for companies
participating in drug-free programs.

The bill also provides an average $12 million over five years for
demonstration grants that would encourage small businesses to join
community-based anti-drug coalitions and offer technical assistance through
existing Small Business Development Centers.

Portman cited figures showing that substance abusers file five times as many
workers' compensation claims as nonabusers and have three to four times the
number of workplace accidents.

Small businesses realize the costs of drug abuse, he said, but need help in
implementing anti-drug programs. ``Just as we provide technical assistance
in developing business plans, identifying loans and other important small
business services, we need to provide assistance with drug-free workplace
programs.''

The bill, H.R. 3853, still needs Senate consideration.

Checked-by: Melodi Cornett