Understanding Medical Marijuana Cards
Medical marijuana is used to treat various physical and mental conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and depression. To obtain medical marijuana, patients need to have a medical marijuana card, which is issued by a licensed medical professional. Medical marijuana cards serve as proof that a patient is authorized to use medical marijuana for medicinal purposes.
Background Checks and Medical Marijuana Cards
Background checks are conducted by employers and other organizations to determine a person’s criminal record, employment history, and other personal information. Medical marijuana cards are considered confidential medical information and are protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). As a result, medical marijuana cards should not show up on background checks.
However, there are some exceptions. If a person is applying for a job that requires a drug test, the employer may request information about a person’s medical marijuana card. In some cases, employers may use medical marijuana card information to deny employment.
Medical Marijuana Card and Employment
Employers can deny employment based on a person’s medical marijuana card because marijuana is still classified as a Schedule I drug under federal law. This means that marijuana has no accepted medical uses and is considered a highly addictive substance. Even though medical marijuana is legal in some states, it is still illegal under federal law.
Employers also have the right to enforce drug-free workplace policies, which means that employees cannot use marijuana, even for medicinal purposes. Therefore, if a person tests positive for marijuana on a drug test, they may be denied employment or even fired from their job.
Medical Marijuana Card and Housing
Medical marijuana cardholders may also face discrimination when it comes to housing. Landlords can deny housing to medical marijuana cardholders because marijuana is still illegal under federal law. Landlords may also have drug-free housing policies that prohibit the use of marijuana, even for medicinal purposes.
However, some states have passed laws that protect medical marijuana cardholders from housing discrimination. For example, in California, landlords cannot discriminate against medical marijuana cardholders unless the use of medical marijuana would cause a significant safety risk to other tenants.
Protecting Your Medical Marijuana Card Information
To protect your medical marijuana card information, it is important to only share it with authorized individuals or organizations. You should also be aware of your rights and protections under HIPAA and other laws.
If you are applying for a job or housing and are concerned about your medical marijuana card status, you may want to consult with an attorney or legal professional who can advise you on your rights and protections.
Conclusion
Medical marijuana cards should not show up on background checks, but there are exceptions. Employers and landlords can deny employment or housing based on a person’s medical marijuana card status. It is important to protect your medical marijuana card information and consult with legal professionals if necessary.
