FMCSA says drug, alcohol clearinghouse will be open to other agencies

From Transport Topics.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has announced its plans to permit Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse records to be disclosed to agencies outside the U.S. Department of Transportation to ensure compliance with drug testing regulations.

When the Clearinghouse goes into effect Jan. 6, employers will be required to list truck and bus drivers who have failed or refused to take DOT drug tests, and the results for drivers required to complete a return-to-duty program and clean drug test.

In addition to checking the Clearinghouse for all prospective new employees, motor carriers will be required to check for violations at least annually for all of its employed drivers. The database is aimed at mitigating job-hopping by drivers who fail their drug and alcohol tests.

The agency said the new system of records announcement is due to be published in the Federal Register on Oct. 22, and that it will accept comments on the announcement 30 days after publication.

FMCSA is encouraging employers to register for use of the Clearinghouse since it will be going live in less than three months.

See the complete article from Transport Topics online.