New Bill Would Allow State Police To Test Motorists' Saliva For Drugs, Alcohol

LANSING (AP) — A plan to create a pilot roadside drug-testing program in five of the state's counties will soon be on its way to Gov. Rick Snyder.

The Legislature approved bills Thursday that would allow law enforcement officers who are trained to recognize impairment due to drugs or alcohol to test drivers' saliva.

The state police would choose five counties to start the yearlong pilot program.

A bill analysis says the results of the roadside saliva test could be allowed as evidence in criminal prosecutions or administrative hearings in some cases.

Supportive lawmakers argue that despite it being illegal to drive while high on marijuana, cocaine, LSD or other drugs, the number of drugged drivers is increasing.

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