Marijuana legalization and employers

The legalization of marijuana use is growing rapidly on the state and even local level but where does that leave an employer in a jurisdiction where it is. How will an employer evaluate a past conviction for possession for something that is now legal? What is your drug screening policy if a positive hit is now found for marijuana? Should you even include a search for cannabis in your drug screening.

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health in 2017, eight million Americans used cannabis at least 300 times a year. This number is expected to grow exponentially. In 2006, there were three million Americans using at least 300 times a year. Additionally, the active ingredient in cannabis today, THC, is up to ten times more potent than in the 1970’s.

Legalization is already the law in your state or it will be soon. Employers should factor in this change into your background check and drug screening processes. Always seek competent legal advice from an attorney specializing in employment law.

For additional information, please review the Society of Human Resources Management below-