Testing for human growth hormone in NFL players has begun

NEW YORK (AP) — Testing for human growth hormone in NFL players has begun.

The testing originally was agreed to in the 2011 labor agreement but was delayed because the union was not comfortable with the procedures or science involved. Both sides agreed last month on the new policy, which took effect Monday and brings HGH testing to the NFL for the first time.

A total of 950 tests will be performed in the regular season, postseason and preseason. In the offseason, approximately 385 tests will be done.

The league and union also agreed to a minimum two-game suspension for a first driving-under-the-influence conviction. Longtime suspensions would be imposed for cases with extenuating circumstances such as personal injury or property damage, or in cases of repeat offenders.