Why it matters: The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) has released a report that explores the impact of cannabis legalization on the trucking industry. The report provides insights into demographic trends in cannabis legalization, as well as hiring implications for the industry. The report also analyzes publicly available CDL driver drug test data, truck driver and carrier opinions on cannabis and an analysis of cannabis policies imposed upon drivers, and research on cannabis, road safety, and much more.
What they are saying: The report notes that federal prohibition “has been highlighted as a potential disincentive for drivers to stay in the industry, and it has even been argued that loosening the restrictions on marijuana use would make the industry more attractive and widen the potential labor pool.” The central goal of industry drug testing efforts is highway safety, and the trucking industry must take several actions to ensure safety and a lack of impairment before federal efforts to legalize cannabis come to fruition.
The big picture: Companies can continue to enforce zero-tolerance policies and the status quo which could help resolve disputes from conflicting state and federal policies, but any shift toward federal legalization would likely ease pressure on the industry’s driver shortage. The report also highlights that most carriers (62%) said that changes in federal drug testing policy are needed and that a cannabis impairment test should replace a cannabis use test (65.4%).
What to watch: Companies may need to adapt when it comes to their drug testing policies and approach to cannabis use, especially if federal policies are relaxed. Trucking companies may also need to consider the potential benefits of relaxing their cannabis use policies to widen the pool of drivers they can hire.
My take: The report presents valuable insights on cannabis and trucking, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with cannabis legalization. As with any industry, trucking companies will need to proactively evaluate their policies and approaches to cannabis use to address the labor shortage and continue to prioritize highway safety.
