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Hazmat Drivers Must Clear Background Checks

In May, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), announced final rules requiring background checks on all commercial drivers certified to transport hazardous materials (Hazmat).

After November 3, 2003, all applicants renewing, transferring, or applying for a hazmat endorsement will need to submit fingerprints and undergo a criminal background screening. Any applicant, for example, with a conviction of certain violent felonies or those who have been found mentally incompetent will not be allowed to obtain or renew their license.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) companion rule amends the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations prohibiting states from issuing, renewing, transferring, or upgrading a commercial drivers license with a Hazmat endorsement unless TSA has completed a background check of the applicant. The FMCSA will also require the states to setup a renewal period of at least five years to ensure that the applicants are regularly screened.

"This is a landmark rule in that it establishes vital safeguards to protect our national transportation network from possible acts of terrorism," said TSA Administrator Adm. James M. Loy. "The rules will further ensure the continued safe transport of a range of products - from chlorine to gasoline - crucial to the economic viability of the United States."

The final rules are available for review at http://dms.dot.gov/. Search for docket numbers 11117 (FMCSA) and 14610 (TSA).

(Source: DOT.Gov)