NEW YORK (AP) - The 32 player representatives to the union have delayed a vote on the NFL's proposal for changes to the drug policy that potentially could implement HGH testing.
After a conference call of about one hour Tuesday night during which the proposal was discussed, the player reps opted to take no action. The proposal was not delivered to the union until midday.
"There was no vote tonight by NFLPA player representatives," union spokesman George Atallah said. "We will continue to work towards a comprehensive agreement."
The union has insisted a satisfactory proposal to them is the only one that will be voted on. Atallah said last week a "piecemeal" agreement did not interest the players.
The sides have discussed changes to the policy on substance abuse and driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol.
A potential hang-up on that issue was the league's desire to immediately discipline players - as well as NFL owners, executives, officials, coaches and league office personnel - arrested for DUIs. NFLPA president Eric Winston said last week ignoring a player's rights to due process would not be considered by the union.
The NFLPA also is pushing for neutral arbitration in the appeals process and is seeking higher thresholds for positive marijuana tests.
But the key element could be a test for human growth hormone.
HGH testing was agreed upon in the 2011 collective bargaining agreement that ended the lockout of the players.