Database catches unfit Arkansas big-rig drivers (UALR Public Radio) - Employers in Arkansas have been making use of a database that records results of substance abuse tests for commercial drivers.

A new state law that took effect at the start of the year requires trucking companies and other employers to search the Arkansas Commercial Driver Alcohol and Drug Testing Database before hiring a commercial driver.

Employers are obligated to report positive alcohol tests to the database as well as the names of drivers who refuse to submit to an alcohol test. The secure database is run by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration Office of Driver Services.

Since the system was launched, there have been 263 positive test results reported to the database. Employers have conducted searches of 5,100 commercial driver records, 45 of which resulted in a match with someone whose name was on the list.

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