MLB, Union Agree To Test For Opioids; Pot No Longer Banned

The MLB and Players Association announced changes to their drug policy, removing marijuana from the list of banned substances and treating it similarly to alcohol. The policy now includes testing for opioids, cocaine, fentanyl, and synthetic THC. Players testing positive will be referred to a treatment board. Suspensions for marijuana use in the minor leagues will be canceled. The new rules are expected to take effect at the start of the 2020 spring training.

What substances will MLB players now be tested for under the new agreement?

• Only marijuana

• Alcohol and tobacco

• Performance-enhancing drugs only

• Opioids, cocaine, fentanyl, and synthetic THC

How will marijuana be treated under the new MLB policy?

• Similarly to alcohol

• As a performance-enhancing drug

• As a banned stimulant

• As a more severe offense than before

What will happen to suspensions for marijuana use in the minor league?

• They will be increased

• They will remain the same

• They will be reduced by half

• They will be canceled

What was the focus of the MLB's previous drug testing policy?

• Testing for all recreational drugs

• Testing for performance-enhancing substances and banned stimulants

• Testing for opioids and cocaine

• Testing for alcohol use

When are the new drug policy changes expected to take effect?

• At the end of 2020

• Immediately

• In 2021

• At the beginning of 2020 spring training