NFL Modifies Substance Abuse Policy, Increases THC Level for Positive Test
The National Football League (NFL) and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) have agreed to modify their substance abuse policy, increasing the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) level for a positive test. According to a memo sent to agents and players, the positive THC level has been increased from 150 ng/ml to 350 ng/ml.
Tetrahydrocannabinol is the primary substance responsible for the effects of marijuana on a person’s mental state. Under the new policy, teams will only be informed of the penalty and that the violation was caused by a positive test and/or a missed test, but will no longer be notified of the substance that caused the positive test.
The medical director may test players in the program for fentanyl if clinically indicated, and failing to comply with a mandatory meeting regarding fentanyl will result in a $15,000 fine. However, there will be no discipline for a positive test.
Fines have been reduced for positive tests, and a fine for a second missed test has changed from a one-game fine to $45,000. The number of missed tests will be reset to zero if a period of time goes by without any additional missed tests. All players who currently have discipline pending for missed tests will have those missed tests excused, and will be considered as having no missed tests.
The policy has also been clarified regarding improper use of prescription drugs, and players will be fined $15,000 for recording and posting the collection process on social media.
Additionally, the league and the NFLPA have tweaked the performance-enhancing substances policy, extending the testing window from the time of notification to the time of test. Suspended players under some circumstances will be reinstated after a suspension, and therefore get paid, even if they still test positive.