What is the retention period for a negative test result by the UPL?

The retention period for a negative test result by the UPL is indeed one year plus the current year. This means that negative results must be kept for a minimum of 12 months after the date of the test, with an additional year added for accounting purposes, ensuring that records are current and maintain compliance with Army regulations.

This requirement supports operational integrity by allowing for a review of testing history if necessary, while also adhering to guidelines set by the Army's policies on drug testing and accountability. Keeping records for this specified time allows for adequate monitoring and ensures transparency in the testing process, contributing to the overall mission readiness of the unit.

Other options suggesting longer retention periods, such as three years or five years, exceed the established policies, while the idea of indefinite retention would create unnecessary burdens in terms of record-keeping and data management. Thus, the practice of retaining negative results for one year plus the current year aligns with regulatory standards and best practices for maintaining accurate records in the UPL process.