Pubdate: Thu, 08 Mar 2001
Source: Los Angeles Times (CA)
Copyright: 2001 Los Angeles Times
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Fax: (213) 237-7679
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NBA DRUG POLICY

Testing

* All players are tested at least once during the four-week 
preseason. Rookies are tested three more times, randomly and without 
notification, each season. Veterans are tested once during the 
preseason.

* If a veteran tests positive, he is tested again during a season 
only if there is reasonable cause. A doctor or counselor from the 
league-mandated program determines whether there is reasonable cause.

Penalties

* Anyone testing positive for cocaine, heroin or other "hard drugs" 
is barred from the NBA for two years.

* After a positive test for marijuana, a first-time offender must 
undergo mandatory counseling. A second positive test includes a 
$15,000 fine. Subsequent positive tests result in five-game 
suspensions and counseling.

Noncompliance

* If within five days of entering the marijuana program a player 
fails to comply (submit to testing and counseling), he is fined 
$10,000. If he fails to comply within eight days, he is fined an 
additional $10,000. Each additional day beyond eight costs the player 
$10,000 a day.
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MAP posted-by: Josh Sutcliffe