DRUGGIE DRIVERS MAY BE PUT TO TEST

The feds are preparing to respond to provincial demands by enacting laws
that would allow police to test drivers for drugs, according to a
government document. The consultation paper, obtained by The Canadian
Press, says the amended legislation would allow police to administer the
tests to motorists suspected of being impaired by drugs. The paper, to be
released today, outlines changes that have been sought by the provinces and
police forces.

The paper will be distributed to the provinces, territories and various
associations, which have one month to respond.

Set Legal Limit

The Justice Department has outlined several options to allow officers to
administer the drug tests and gather evidence.

The suggested amendments would establish a legal drug limit, the obligation
to submit to tests, the possibility of providing urine, blood or
perspiration samples and penalties for refusing to comply.

Although it's illegal in Canada to drive while impaired by drugs or
alcohol, there's no quick roadside test for drug use.

Under current laws, police officers can only ask drivers whether they have
used drugs, but can't administer a test.

"If the police officers haven't received specific training about evaluating
the effect of drugs, this task can be nearly impossible to accomplish,"
said the document.

The task isn't any easier for trained officers because a suspect can refuse
a drug test.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving denounced the consultation paper, saying
Federal Justice Minister Martin Cauchon has pushed for the
decriminalization of marijuana while failing to enact measures to
discourage drug-impaired driving.