How Does the Legalization of Marijuana Affect Workplaces?

Several states recently passed legislation allowing the legalization of marijuana. This change in policy and laws has an impact on all aspects of society, including the American workplace. Managers are now facing big changes in regards to personnel and human resources issues.

Drug Policy Changes 
In the past, any positive drug test could be used as grounds for firing. However, today’s new laws allow marijuana users protection in the states where use is legal. Business owners have to think about how they can create a policy that protects employees from harm due to marijuana use, but also allows employees to express their legal rights.
Just because marijuana is legalized does not give employees the right to smoke on the job. Studies have shown that being under the influence of marijuana can impact an employee’s ability to complete an assigned task safely. As such, employers should create drug use policies that clearly state that marijuana use is not tolerated while at work.
Private vs. Federal Companies 
Managers of privately-owned companies are not allowed to discriminate against users of medical and recreational marijuana in legalized states, but any federally-funded companies are required to consider marijuana as an illegal drug due to the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988.
Today’s workplaces may see a shift in the policies they are used to regarding marijuana. Check out the infographic created by FrankCrum below to find out more about the changes that are to come.