Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) has introduced a new bill that would require Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employees to pass a drug test and undergo random drug testing in order to keep their Special Government Employee status. This move comes after concerns about Musk’s history with drugs, as stated in a press release on Sherrill’s official website.
“Donald Trump has given billionaire Elon Musk control over parts of our government, granting him access to highly sensitive information — from Treasury and Social Security data to military secrets. Those who have access to this kind of information must be thoroughly vetted, clear-headed, and able to make good decisions. Musk and his DOGE employees should meet the same standards as other executive branch employees, including passing a drug test to keep their jobs and security clearances,” said Rep. Sherrill.
Sherrill emphasized the importance of security, citing concerns over the sharing of classified information by Trump’s top national security officials in an unsecured Signal group chat, which put military personnel at risk. “It’s more important than ever to protect the American people from the Trump Administration’s recklessness and disregard for national security,” she added.
The press release points out that government officials with access to sensitive information usually must pass a drug test and are subject to random testing. This is to ensure they follow the law and cannot be blackmailed for illegal drug use. Sherrill’s bill would extend this requirement to Musk and other Special Government Employees, making them pass regular drug tests to maintain their access to sensitive government data.
Rep. Sherrill has also been active in pushing back against Musk’s influence. She has called for investigations into Musk’s conflicts of interest and has supported measures to limit his access to sensitive Social Security information. Sherrill has also stood with federal employees who were fired by Musk and DOGE.
