California State Law on TB Testing

Although tuberculosis (TB) is largely controlled in the United States (U.S.), it is still taken seriously because it was once the leading killer in the U.S. and is still the leading killer in the world. There are new strains which are drug-resistant making vigilance important. Since TB can be spread through the air, one of the easiest places it can be spread is in the schools. California schools are especially susceptible to spreading the disease, given its large and diverse immigrant population. For this reason, California law requires certain school employees be tested.

Who is Covered?

The law applies to employees of private or parochial elementary and secondary schools and any nursery school and must be done within 60 days of employment. This includes bus drivers, except those who drive buses infrequently, such as substitute bus drivers. Schools can require more frequent or more extensive testing. These requirements also apply to volunteers.

Who is Exempt?

The schools need not test anyone employed for less than a year and whose job does not involve contact with students. These exemptions apply also to volunteers.

Retesting

Employees must be retested every four years.

References

• Justia.com: California Health and Safety Code-Section 121525-121555: Chapter 3. Tuberculosis Tests for Employees.
• Testcountry.org: Why You May Need TB Testing.

Resources

• California Tuberculosis Controllers Association: California TB Legal Resources.