Why it matters: This article highlights the importance of protecting the rights of medical marijuana patients in the workplace. The city of Amsterdam, New York was found to have discriminated against a worker who tested positive for marijuana during a drug screening. The jury’s decision emphasizes the need for employers to accommodate employees’ medical marijuana use and not discriminate against them based on their medical condition.
What they are saying: The employee’s attorney argues that the city was eager to fire his client and did not give him a chance to present his prescription card before termination. The defense claims that the employee did not properly notify the city about his medical marijuana prescription and did not provide any affirmation that it would not affect his job performance.
The big picture: New York legalized medical marijuana in 2014 and granted registered patients disability status, protecting them from employment discrimination related to cannabis use. This case highlights the importance of employers adhering to these protections and accommodating medical marijuana patients in the workplace.
What to watch: It remains to be seen if the judge will order the city to reinstate the employee and whether the city will have to pay his legal fees. This case could set a precedent for future cases involving medical marijuana patients and employment discrimination.
Take: It is crucial for employers to recognize the rights of medical marijuana patients and not discriminate against them based on their cannabis use. This case underscores the need for education and understanding surrounding medical marijuana in the workplace, as well as the importance of adhering to legal protections for medical marijuana patients. Employers should strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where employees can manage their health conditions effectively.
