Vikings linemen's trial tests state employment law
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Testimony resumes Tuesday in a case between two Minnesota Vikings linemen and the National Football League that will test state employment law.
In August 2008, both Kevin Williams and Pat Williams were told they tested positive for a substance that can mask the presence of steroids that is banned by the NFL.
Both men deny taking steroids, but their dispute with the league is not necessarily about accusations of drug use. Instead they argue that the NFL -- their employer, they say -- didn't follow state law which compels an employer to notify an employee of a positive drug test within a three-day period.
A consultant who administers the NFL's drug testing program testified the players were told about the findings more than a month after the tests.
Attorneys for the NFL say the Minnesota Vikings are the men's employer. If the judge rules that the NFL is at least a partial employer, it will have to follow state employment laws.
A state judge has said if the NFL is their employer, then it has to obey state law.
Attorneys for the players say Vikings coach Brad Childress may also take the stand during the trial.
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