Neuquén Legislature approves mandatory drug testing for deputies

The Legislature of Neuquén has approved a protocol for mandatory, random, and surprise toxicological testing for its 35 provincial deputies. The resolution passed with 30 votes in favor and two against.

Under the new rules, tests will be conducted within the legislative building at least once every two months during ordinary sessions, committee meetings, or preparatory encounters. The rapid tests aim to detect substances including cocaine, cannabinoids, opioids, amphetamines, barbiturates, and benzodiazepines. If an initial test returns a positive result, a confirmatory test must be performed at an official health network laboratory.

The measure is part of a provincial regulation promoted by Governor Rolando Figueroa, which establishes drug testing as a condition for holding certain public offices across the three branches of government, including judges, mayors, ministers, and directors of public companies. The protocol specifies that deputies must cover the cost of their own exams. Furthermore, an unjustified refusal to provide a sample will be treated as a positive result, which may lead to dismissal from office.