FRAFinal Rule

Control of Alcohol and Drug Use Regulations

TransportationLabor & WorkplaceHealthcare

Summary

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is implementing new rules to prevent railroad workers and employees from working while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These regulations aim to improve safety for both railroad workers and the traveling public by ensuring that people operating trains and managing rail operations are not impaired.

Key Points

  • 1Railroad companies must test employees for drugs and alcohol before hiring and randomly during employment
  • 2Workers cannot report to work or perform safety-sensitive duties if they have used alcohol or drugs recently
  • 3Violations can result in removal from duty, suspension, or termination of employment
  • 4The rules apply to all railroad employees whose jobs affect the safe operation of trains
  • 5Companies must establish written policies and provide education to workers about substance use rules

Impact Assessment

If you are a railroad worker or transportation company, this means you must implement drug and alcohol testing and prevention programs, maintain documentation of compliance, and ensure employees are not impaired while working.

Impact Level
Significant
Geographic Scope

National

Compliance Cost

Moderate

Who is Affected
Transportation CompaniesWorkers/LaborersConsumers

Key Dates

Published

July 1, 2025

Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
49 CFR Part 219

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.