Understanding Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a plant that is used for medicinal purposes. It contains several chemical compounds, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), that can be used to treat various conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy. Medical marijuana is typically prescribed by a physician and is legal in some states in the United States.
The Difference Between Medical Marijuana and Recreational Marijuana
Medical marijuana is different from recreational marijuana in that it is used for medicinal purposes only. Recreational marijuana, on the other hand, is used for entertainment purposes and is typically smoked or ingested to achieve a high. Recreational marijuana is not legal in all states, whereas medical marijuana is legal in some states with a prescription.
The Debate Around Medical Marijuana and Employment
While medical marijuana is legal in some states, it is still a topic of debate when it comes to employment. Many employers still consider marijuana a drug and have strict policies against drug use. This means that even if you are using medical marijuana legally, it could prevent you from getting a job.
Employer Drug Policies
Employers have the right to establish drug policies in the workplace. This means that they can prohibit employees from using drugs, including medical marijuana, even if it is legal. Employers can also require drug testing before hiring an employee, as well as during their employment. If an employee tests positive for marijuana, including medical marijuana, they could be terminated.
Federal Law vs. State Law
One of the reasons medical marijuana is still a topic of debate when it comes to employment is because of the conflict between federal law and state law. While medical marijuana is legal in some states, it is still illegal under federal law. This means that even if an individual is using medical marijuana legally in their state, they could still be in violation of federal law, which could affect their employment.
The ADA and Medical Marijuana
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. Some individuals argue that if they are using medical marijuana to treat a disability, their employer should not be allowed to discriminate against them. However, the ADA does not protect individuals who are using drugs illegally, including medical marijuana that is illegal under federal law.
What Can You Do?
If you are using medical marijuana and are concerned about how it could affect your employment, there are a few things you can do.
Research the Employer’s Drug Policy
Before applying for a job, research the employer’s drug policy. If they have a strict policy against drug use, including medical marijuana, it might be best to look for employment elsewhere.
Consider Alternative Treatments
If you are concerned about how medical marijuana could affect your employment, consider alternative treatments for your condition. Talk to your physician about other options that might be available to you.
Talk to Your Employer
If you are already employed and are using medical marijuana, it might be worth talking to your employer about your situation. Explain why you are using medical marijuana and how it is helping you. Your employer might be willing to work with you to find a solution that works for both of you.
Conclusion
Medical marijuana is a topic of debate when it comes to employment. While it is legal in some states, employers can still prohibit its use in the workplace. If you are using medical marijuana and are concerned about how it could affect your employment, it is important to research the employer’s drug policy, consider alternative treatments, and talk to your employer. By being informed and proactive, you can help ensure that your use of medical marijuana does not prevent you from getting a job.
