Pennsylvania Trucking Group Wants Statewide Database

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he Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association is pushing for a statewide database that would compile employer records on drivers’ drug test results, in an effort to weed out problem truckers, the Associated Press reported.

Traffic violations and criminal convictions can be found on drivers’ public records, but carriers say they often have no way to track if drivers had any positive tests at their previous jobs, AP reported.

Trucking officials said that while most truck drivers have clean histories, it can be hard for companies to keep track of the ones who consistently have bad records, AP said.

Don Siekerman, the association's safety director, said a statewide database also could include information such as whether a driver has his latest required medical certification, AP reported.

Some states — including Washington, Oregon, North Carolina and Texas — have databases of positive drug tests by commercial drivers, according to Dave Osiecki, vice president for safety, security and operations for American Trucking Associations.

Others, including Virginia, have considered the idea, and the issue is likely to gain as an important one, Osiecki said.