USDOT says the move is an effort to "enhance safety, prevent opioid abuse and combat the nation's growing opioid epidemic."
The drug testing panel will now include certain semi-synthetic opioids such as hydrocodone, hydromorphone, oxymorphone and oxycodone.
"The opioid crisis is a threat to public safety when it involves safety-sensitive employees involved in the operation of any kind of vehicle or transport," said Secretary Elaine L. Chao. "The ability to test for a broader range of opioids will advance transportation safety significantly and provide another deterrence to opioid abuse, which will better protect the public and ultimately save lives."
USDOT-regulated employers will be required to test for these opioids beginning on Jan. 1, 2018.