Marijuana legalization has increased substantially in just the past 50 years with more than half of Americans now residing in states permitting recreational use. And even in areas where cannabis remains illegal, policies have changed to allow possession as a low-level offense rather than a criminal act.
Marijuana in the Workplace
In states like California, Colorado, Washington, and Alaska, legal marijuana in the workplace is fully legal with citizens being able to possess as much as an ounce of marijuana. However, states like Idaho, Kansas, Wyoming, and South Carolina have strict penalties, such as imprisonment and fines, if one is caught in possession of marijuana.
In terms of the workplace, a growing number of states are employing employee protections during the pre-hire process. In fact, Nevada, New York City, and Washington D.C. have enforced laws that bar employers from pre-employment marijuana screening. Despite this protection, employers in five states are allowed to penalize those who work while under the influence. But this can only be done if sufficient evidence provided outside of a failed drug test is provided, especially considering that these tests are not always 100% accurate.
Conclusion
As cannabis legalization expands, employers are being challenged to align their workplace policies with the shifting public and legal perception of cannabis.
Source: US Drug Test Centers