DISA Global Solutions is taking a look back on 2020 to highlight some of our most impactful articles. As we faced many challenges throughout the year, like many others, we ensured the most reliable and accurate industry updates and provided our customers with information and news, helping them each step of the way throughout the pandemic. Our focus remained on helping customers maintain compliance and a safe workplace, regardless of what 2020 threw our way. In case you missed them the first time, here are some of the most impactful articles DISA published regarding transportation, drug and alcohol testing, background check, and more.
Drug Testing Articles
Q4 Update: Positivity Rates Continue To Worsen Due To the COVID-19 Pandemic
As we face one pandemic, employers need to anticipate the worsening amphetamine epidemic and prepare their workplace drug testing programs now before it’s too late. Before the pandemic, amphetamines were already on the rise, and with added stress, anxiety, and fear, drug test positivity rates are now soaring. Find out how to remain vigilant to the trends in positivity rates and implement a comprehensive drug testing policy here: Q4 Update: Positivity Rates Continue To Worsen Due To the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Oregon Decriminalizes Possession of Hard Drugs
Oregon became the first state to decriminalize the possession of hard drugs, including heroin, methamphetamine, LSD, and Oxycodone. Hard drugs still remain ILLEGAL in Oregon, and the lessened offenses might decrease an individual’s deterrence from using drugs in the first place, making it vital for employers to understand the new law. Learn how this might impact those who are entering your workforce: Oregon Decriminalizes Possession of Hard Drugs.
The Safety of Drug Testing Collection Sites Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
The coronavirus pandemic has caused significant changes to businesses and daily life across the country, including the collection site industry. Despite the common misconception, collection sites are a safe place to send your employees during this time. With positivity rates increasing, it’s vital that employers continue to maintain or implement drug testing practices. Learn how collection sites have implemented new procedures to create a safer environment: The Safety of Drug Testing Collection Sites Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Oklahoma Governor Signs House Bill to Fund Pilot Program for THC Breathalyzers
In states where marijuana is legal, either recreationally, medicinally, or both, employers are faced with growing challenges of how to detect current impairment while on the job. On May 21, 2020, the Governor of Oklahoma signed House Bill 4164, featuring a pilot program used by state and local law enforcement to help solve problems with THC detection windows in current drug testing methods. Learn more about what the future may hold for the drug testing industry and how it helps employers: Oklahoma Governor Signs House Bill to Fund Pilot Program for THC Breathalyzers.
Transportation Articles
The Doghouse or the Clearinghouse?
Our very own Steven Howell, AVP of Transportation Sales, crafted a detailed presentation over the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Clearinghouse rule called, “The Doghouse or the Clearinghouse?” This clever presentation compares five emotional stages of getting a new dog to the Clearinghouse. Learn more about the Clearinghouse and how it can affect your company: The Doghouse or the Clearinghouse?
FMCSA Modifies and Extends Emergency Declaration
Due to the increased demand for essential supplies for the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Motor Carrier Administration (FMCSA) issued a national emergency declaration providing regulatory relief for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. It’s vital that employers understand and stay up-to-date on any modifications and extensions as the pandemic continues. Learn more about which drivers fall into the extension categories here: FMCSA Modifies and Extends Emergency Declaration.
FMCSA Grants MPCS Exemption for Clearinghouse Rule
The Motion Picture Compliance Solutions (MPCS) exemption to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse Rule has been granted after stating that it didn’t fit their industry’s model. The exemption is for its members who employ commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders providing transportation to or from a theatrical, commercial, or television production site and are subject to drug and alcohol testing. To further understand the complexities of the Clearinghouse requirements and how it impacts your company, click here: FMCSA Grants MPCS Exemption for Clearinghouse Rule.
FMCSA HOS Final Rule Changes and What You Need to Know
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has rolled out new Hours of Service (HOS) rules, which allow for greater flexibility for drivers without affecting safety measures. These rules implement specific regulations on rest breaks, consecutive hours driving, off-duty time, meals, and sleeping. Learn more about the recent changes: FMCSA HOS Final Rule Changes and What You Need to Know.
Background Check Articles
Improper Criminal History Checks Resulted in $6 Million Dollar Lawsuit Payout
On November 18, 2019, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced in a press release that they settled a race discrimination lawsuit with a nationwide retailer that challenged the employer’s use of criminal history for employment purposes. The claim resulted in a $6 million-dollar payout, as well as requiring the employer to hire a criminologist if they continue to consider using criminal history checks as part of their pre-employment process. To further protect your company from potential risks and fees, learn more here: Improper Criminal History Checks Resulted in $6 Million Dollar Lawsuit Payout.
Covering New Ban the Box Laws State-By-State for 2020
2020 brought a number of new ban the box laws for some cities and states, including San Francisco, California, Waterloo, Iowa, and Grand Rapids, Michigan, as well as a statewide ban for Maryland. Employers should always stay alert and aware of what their state’s laws are to maintain compliance when conducting background checks on their applicants or employees. Find out more about the latest updates to ban the box laws that could affect your company: Covering New Ban the Box Laws State-By-State for 2020.
DISA Global Solutions Receives Accreditation from the Background Check Credentialing Council (BSCC)
The Professional Background Check Association (PBSA®) Background Check Credentialing Council (BSCC) announced that DISA Global Solutions, Inc. has successfully demonstrated compliance with the Background Check Agency Accreditation Program (BSAAP) and will now be formally recognized as BSCC-Accredited. This recognition will stand as the industry “seal,” representing a background check organization’s commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards, and continued institutional improvement. Learn more about DISA’s accreditation and how they can help keep your workplace safe: DISA Global Solutions Receives Accreditation from the Background Check Credentialing Council (BSCC).
Virginia Decriminalizes Marijuana, Preventing Employers From Inquiring About Past Convictions
Virginia became the 27th state to decriminalize marijuana, reducing the penalty of a person caught with an ounce or less of marijuana to a $25 civil fine. As laws continue to change by state, the decriminalization and legalization of marijuana are topics employers need to follow closely, especially those with employees in safety-sensitive positions. Learn more about how DISA can help you navigate the complexities of everchanging background check laws: Virginia Decriminalizes Marijuana, Preventing Employers From Inquiring About Past Convictions.
Throughout 2021, DISA will continue to provide insightful and relevant articles to keep employers in the loop of the latest and greatest news and industry changes that could affect their workplace safety. To get the most recent information regarding drug and alcohol testing, background check, transportation, occupational health, and more, follow us on LinkedIn or Facebook or Twitter!
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About DISA Global Solutions
Founded in 1986, DISA is the industry-leading provider of employee screening and compliance services. Headquartered in Houston, with more than 35 offices throughout the U.S. and Canada, DISA’s comprehensive scope of services includes drug and alcohol testing, background check, occupational health, and transportation compliance. DISA assists employers in making informed staffing decisions while building a culture of safety in their workplace.