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FMCSA strikes on drugs, alcohol
By Jill Dunn
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration conducted its first national drug and alcohol strike force last month that removed 77 truck and bus drivers from the road.
The agency announced the Sept. 8-18 enforcement also resulted in more than 80 carriers facing penalties. During that time, investigators examined drug and alcohol safety records of commercial drivers.
The 77 drivers could face civil penalties for not adhering to federal drug and alcohol regulations. They can no longer operate a commercial motor vehicle and will probably face fines. Also, 84 carriers will see pending enforcement actions for violations such as using a driver who has tested positive for illegal drugs and for not instituting a drug and alcohol testing program.
Drivers and carriers will be able to contest alleged violations and civil penalties.
The strike force’s goal is to identify carriers violating drug and alcohol testing requirements and to remove truck and bus drivers from the road who jump carriers to duck drug and alcohol testing and reporting requirements.
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