Keeping up with trends in drug testing is tough, right? From new technologies to changing legal landscapes, there’s always something new happening. Our monthly news roundups aim to help you stay informed and up-to-date. Every month, we’ll bring you the latest news and developments in drug testing. Read on for valuable insights.
Positive Drug Tests for Truck Drivers are Down
The number of positive drug tests among truck drivers declined in calendar year 2023 according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse. The number of annually recorded positive tests decreased to 61,443 in 2023 from 68,639 in 2022 — a more than 10% decline. While there could be a few unknown variables that are impacting the decline, officials are cautiously optimistic that the decline is due to drivers being provided with more training and education materials. They are hopeful that drug testing efforts will not only sustain the downward trend but also contribute to even greater improvements in road safety throughout 2024 and beyond. Want to read more? Check out the full article here.
FMCSA Warning: Drivers Who Drug-Test Positive Will Lose CDLs
Federal trucking regulators have issued a warning that later this year truck drivers who test positive for drug use will not only be placed on prohibited driving status, but will also lose their commercial driver licenses until they complete the federal return-to-work process. By November 18, 2024, as part of new federal regulations, drivers with a “prohibited” status in the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse will lose or be denied their state-issued commercial driving privileges. FMCSA’s final rule was issued in October 2021, but the message went out this week to remind drivers of the new rule. To find out how this final rule will help keep unsafe drivers off the road by increasing compliance click here.
Conclusion
Staying informed about the latest trends and developments in drug testing is crucial. By understanding the evolving landscape and implementing new practices, employers can create effective drug testing programs that promote safety, productivity, and compliance. If you have any questions or need assistance with your drug testing program, please contact Traverse. Our team of experts is here to help you navigate the complexities of drug testing and ensure the success of your program.
