Congresswoman Emily Randall is urging the federal government to consider relaxing strict drug testing rules for transportation workers concerning marijuana use outside of work hours to ensure a robust workforce, especially for ferries in Washington. However, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has advised that federal drug testing requirements remain in effect until the cannabis rescheduling process is complete, and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg suggested that rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III would likely not alter the DOT's testing requirements. Recent scientific reviews also indicate that there is little research supporting the idea that THC concentration in the blood correlates to driving impairment.

Congresswoman Urges Feds to Ease Cannabis Drug Testing for Transportation Workers

Jan 26, 2026

Source:

Tom Angell

Marijuana Moment

It’s time to stop penalizing workers for what they do on their own time, and Washington Congresswoman Emily Randall is leading the charge. During a recent House hearing, she urged the federal government to relax strict drug testing for transportation workers, specifically ferry operators. The current rules are causing major staffing shortages because a positive test can sideline a qualified professional for weeks, even if they haven't touched a joint since their last vacation.

Despite the common-sense appeal, the Department of Transportation (DOT) is playing it safe, stating that rules won't budge until federal rescheduling is finalized. Even then, officials suggest that Schedule III might not automatically end the testing mandate. However, scientific data is on our side, showing that THC blood levels are a poor indicator of actual impairment.

For the community, this is a huge step toward normalizing cannabis as a lifestyle choice that shouldn't cost you your career. Moving away from outdated testing methods ensures a more inclusive workforce and recognizes that responsible off-duty use doesn't impact job safety.