The Department of Transportation (DOT) published a final rule in the Federal Register (82 FR 52229) today. The rule, among other items, added four semi-synthetic opioids (i.e., hydrocodone, oxycodone, hydromorphone, oxymorphone). DOT also added methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) as an initial test analyte and removed the testing for methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDEA).
“The opioid crisis is a threat to public safety when it involves safety-sensitive employees involved in the operation of any kind of vehicle or transport,” said Secretary Elaine L. Chao. “The ability to test for a broader range of opioids will advance transportation safety significantly and provide another deterrence to opioid abuse, which will better protect the public and ultimately save lives.”
The final rule will be effective January 1, 2018.