State Senator and Ex-Sheriff Wants Roadside Drug Testing in Michigan

A former Michigan sheriff is leading the charge to bring roadside drug testing to the state, calling it a necessary step as cannabis use becomes more common. He’s also dismissing critics of the proposal, describing their opposition as a “smoke show.”

Former Sheriff-Turned-Senator Backs Roadside Tests

Brian BeGole, the former sheriff of Shiawassee County, now serves as a Republican state senator. He’s advocating for Michigan police to begin using SoToxa devices, a portable drug testing tool made by Abbott Laboratories. The device is designed to detect certain substances during roadside stops. BeGole demonstrated how it works during a Michigan House Rules Committee hearing on Thursday, June 6.

How the SoToxa Device Works

Under the proposal, officers who suspect a driver may be under the influence of drugs would ask for a saliva sample. A swab of the driver’s mouth is inserted into the SoToxa device, with results available in just minutes. BeGole told MLive that the device only detects the presence of drugs, not the level of impairment.

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He also emphasized that test results would not automatically lead to an arrest. The device, he said, is meant to be one tool among many to help officers assess a situation.

“Maybe the person said, ‘I was adjusting my radio,’ or maybe, ‘I’m just tired,’ and then this actually saves people, right?” he said. If there are no signs of alcohol or drugs, “You’re on your way.”

Critics Raise Concerns About False Positives

Critics, however, have raised concerns that positive test results could lead to arrests even when a driver is not impaired. Since recreational marijuana is legal in Michigan, the device could detect cannabis in someone’s system long after its effects have worn off.

The bill remains in committee and will face further discussion before it’s considered by the full House.