Gov. Scott Suspends State Employee Drug Tests

Gov. Rick Scott has suspended plans to implement an executive order mandating drug testing for all state employees.

In a June 10 memo to agency heads, Scott said only the Department of Corrections will move ahead with administering drug tests for employees, regardless of suspicion.

Scott issued his drug testing order March 22. The ACLU of Florida sued to block that order May 31.

Scott says that while the lawsuit is pending, it doesn't make sense for all state agencies to move forward with the logistical issues involved in instituting his policy.

ACLU of Florida Executive Director Howard Simon on Thursday called the memo "a massive and embarrassing retreat on the part of Gov. Scott."

In the memo, Scott says the drug testing ensures a safe, fiscally accountable work force.