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HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — A bill that would require clinical laboratories in Connecticut to conduct hair follicle drug tests ordered by medical personnel is moving to Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's desk.
The House of Representatives on Thursday overwhelmingly approved the bill, which previously cleared the Senate.
The legislation stems from the 2014 death of 17-year-old Kyle Cruz. His father, Jim Cruz, tried unsuccessfully to secure a hair follicle drug test after the teen began exhibiting sudden, disturbing behavior. Democratic Sen. Carlo Leone said the Stamford father was repeatedly turned away from a testing center despite having a doctor's authorization for the test.
Kyle Cruz committed suicide shortly afterward.
Under the bill, clinical labs would have to administer the tests if they're deemed necessary by a licensed physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse.
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