Reconsider drug testing for teen driver permits

Dear Editor, Drugged driving is becoming as prevalent as drunk driving. In 2015, more drivers tested positive for drugs than those who tested above the legal limit for alcohol in fatal auto accidents.

Forty-five percent of New York state’s high school seniors report they have tried an illicit drug, Twenty-seven percent report they are currently using drugs. In Ulster County the average is about 10 points higher than the state in both categories, according to a state youth survey.

In 1996, President Bill Clinton proposed that teenagers be required to pass a drug test before receiving a driver’s license. The idea failed to get traction because testing at that time could only detect drug use for a couple of days. Today’s tests, using hair analysis, can determine the presence of drugs for three months or more.

One of the highest priorities for teenagers in rural and suburban areas is getting a driver’s license. If drug screening was required for a learner’s permit, it would substantially reduce teen drug use.

It may be time to revisit Clinton’s proposal.

For parents, it would serve as an early warning that their teen might be using should he or she delay applying for a learner’s permit. It would also act to counter any peer pressure to experiment with drugs, as most teens would favor driving over drugging.

A less restrictive approach could be available if the auto insurance industry would offer reduced rates for young drivers that undergo drug screening. For them, it would lower the accident rate for young drivers and parents would similarly be alerted should their teen show any reluctance to apply for it.

Thomas Kadgen Member, Ulster County Stop DWI Advisory Board

Shokan, N.Y.