Congressman Charlie Crist is leading a battle to eliminate marijuana testing in states where the drug is legal. Using marijuana legally doesn’t always protect you if you fail a drug test in the workplace. Federal employees could have to choose between their therapy of choice or their jobs.
But Congressman Charlie Crist of St. Petersburg wants to change that, stating “I think if someone is legitimately taking medical marijuana prescribed to them by their physician, that they shouldn’t be discriminated against for that and they shouldn’t’ be barred from federal employment”.
Those who oppose this bill say it could be damaging to employers and businesses. Thirty-three states and counting have legalized medical marijuana, including here in Florida and 11 have made it legal for recreation use. As of right now, the black and white answer to the question everyone is asking is whether or not you can be legally terminated from your place of employment over medical marijuana. Unfortunately, this is a huge grey area in the legal field right now because other legislation hasn’t caught up medical marijuana legalization.
One thing is for certain. Over the next few years, we will see major changes in the Floridas legislation as far as marijuana is concerned and soon after, the proper legislation adjustments will have to be made accordingly. If you have been wrongfully terminated over the results of a positive drug test, it may be in your best interest to contact an experienced employment lawyer. Give us a call today at (813) 553-5648.