Because I Got High: Drug Testing and Marijuana in Today's Workplace

Weed. Dope. Pot. Grass. Hash. Mary Jane. Doobie. High. Stoned. An estimated half of Americans have claimed they have used marijuana at some point in their lives, and many of them are current users. Americans have cut back on drinking and have turned to marijuana and gummies for recreation, relaxation, and medicinal purposes.

Many states have legalized marijuana use or possession, at least in certain quantities. Yet marijuana still remains a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law. From a legal perspective, this has presented unique issues and quandaries, especially when it comes to the workplace. These quandaries are especially front of mind when it comes to disability accommodations, multi-state employers, and employers with safety-sensitive positions or operations.

Attorney Staple will examine some of these quandaries and potential approaches employers can take, including the following topics: 

1. The prevalence of marijuana and drug use in America
2. The most used drugs and common signs employees may be using them
3. State laws on marijuana legalization
4. Effective employer drug testing policies, procedures, and considerations
5. The Americans with Disabilities Act and medical marijuana
6. and Other related topics. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Appreciate the prevalence of drug use in employee populations

2. Identify legal issues with respect to drug testing, especially marijuana

3. Describe potential approaches for employers to handle employee drug use