The American Trucking Associations is asking Congress to allow the use of hair samples in federally mandated drug screenings of commercial drivers.

In a letter to lawmakers, AGA CEO Bill Graves noted that several companies already use hair samples for drug tests. He said more would turn to the method if it were not for the fact that they must already pay for mandated urine tests, which ATA believes are unreliable.

"ATA is aware of thousands of truck drivers who have tested positive for illegal drug use on hair tests and have obtained driving positions with other carriers because they were subsequently able to pass DOT-required urine tests," Graves said. "Several of these drivers have had crashes and, of course, future ones are likely as a result."

Graves also blasted labor organizations that have argued the tests were unreliable and could be racially biased.

"Hair testing is a validated, proven and effective method for detecting illegal drug use that has been widely embraced by private industry and many governments worldwide," he said.

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