It is both mandatory and random in Tazewell county because every participant in a VHSL sanctioned sport or activity knows at the start of the season that he or she could be subjected to the test during the season. The selections are made by a computer and the tests are done by an independent agency. They are tested not only for drugs but for alcohol and tobacco also. The school board developed the policy after holding public hearings. the school system does not ;pay for the testing there is a grant obtained by substance Abuse Task Force in Rural Appalachia paying the bill.