A long-time bus driver for the Newton Community School District was recently fired because a special product she was using for her arthritis triggered a positive drug test.

Seventy-six-year-old Peg Esperanza has served as a school bus driver for the Newton Community School District for several years.

She says she was shocked and devastated t learn that CBD oil used for her arthritis had triggered a positive drug test.

Esperanza said she started using the product a couple of months ago. She said the treatment has helped her on the job, driving children with special needs to and from school.

Esperanza said she was drug tested after a minor accident in a school vehicle and failed the drug test, which came as a complete surprise to her.

Esperanza was told the drug test contained small amounts of THC. In Iowa, however, it is legal for CBD oil to contain a small amount of THC.

Esperanza said she plans to move from the Newton area because she can no longer afford her apartment.

The Newton Community School District has declined comment on the matter.