The FMCSA has issued a warning regarding new regulations for truck drivers who test positive for drugs. Starting in late 2024, they will not only face a driving ban but will also lose their commercial licenses till they complete the federal return-to-duty (RTD) process. The FMCSA emphasizes that the Clearinghouse has effectively boosted compliance with the ban on unsafe drivers driving commercial vehicles.
As of September 2023, 149,374 drivers remain banned, with 113,639 yet to initiate the return-to-work process. Even with marijuana legalized in some states, truckers face zero tolerance policies, leading many to exit the profession rather than meet requirements.
The FMCSA reports that the new rule, in effect since October 2021, will require state driver licensing agencies to take action when drug test failures are reported in the Clearinghouse.
Drivers testing positive will not only be prohibited from driving, but their CDLs will be revoked or denied until they complete the return-to-duty (RTD) process. The FMCSA insists that its program is enhancing safety by holding drivers accountable for drug and alcohol violations and ensuring compliance with return-to-work (RTD) requirements. However, there are concerns that many drivers, upon testing positive, may choose to leave the profession rather than enroll in the RTD program.