Action
Notice of proposed rulemaking.
Summary
The Research and Special Programs Administration proposes to modify current procedures in its drug testing regulations governing situations in which pipeline employees test positive on a drug test. The proposed changes would require pipeline operators to require employees who test positive for the presence of prohibited drugs or who refuse to take a required drug test to be evaluated by a substance abuse professional (SAP), who could require an employee to undergo a rehabilitation program prior to the employee's return to duty. The reason for this change is to conform RSPA's drug and alcohol testing regulations with the drug and alcohol regulations of the other Department of Transportation operating administrations. In addition, RSPA is proposing to define ``covered employee'' and ``covered function.'' Finally, this rule would allow Medical Review Officers (MROs) who meet the SAP qualifications to perform the evaluation of individuals who have had a verified positive drug test or who have refused to take a required test.