Roadside drug testing a step closer

It’s been announced that the NZ Government has introduced legislation that will enable roadside drug testing. 

A statement from Transport Minister Simeon Brown read;

“Alcohol and drugs are the number one contributing factor in fatal road crashes in New Zealand. In 2022, alcohol and drugs were contributors to 200 fatal crashes on our roads. Despite this, Police currently have no way to undertake saliva testing for drugs at the roadside, and only 26 per cent of drivers think they are likely to be caught while driving under the influence of drugs. 

“We are enabling oral fluid testing at the roadside for screening purposes so that Police can procure the drug testing devices needed to crack down on drug driving.  

“Oral fluid testing is common overseas and is an easy way to screen for drugs at the roadside. Our approach will bring New Zealand in line with Australian legislation. Our legislation will empower Police to randomly screen drivers for drugs, similar to how drink-driving is enforced. 

“Drivers who refuse to undergo oral fluid testing will be issued with an immediate infringement notice and be prohibited from driving for 12 hours to reduce the risk of tragic drugged driving outcomes. 

“Our Government Policy Statement on land transport 2024 outlines our expectation that Police undertake 50,000 oral fluid tests per year once the roadside drug testing regime is rolled out. 

“Our approach takes a much harder line on the causes of death and serious injury on our roads. We will do this by ensuring that motorists are safer and that people impaired by drugs think twice before getting behind the wheel.” 

The Land Transport (Drug Driving) Amendment Bill will be sent to the Transport and Infrastructure Select Committee for consideration after its first reading this week.