In August, the California State Legislature approved Assembly Bill 2188. AB 2188 would prevent employers from discriminating against their employees who lawfully use marijuana outside of work. If signed into law, the bill would ensure that those who fail drug tests that detect inactive cannabis compounds could not be terminated. Employers could only terminate employees who fail saliva drug tests searching for tetrahydrocannabinol, which indicates that someone is currently under the influence.
There are certain exemptions, like those who work with heavy machinery or in positions that require deferral clearance. State/federal laws that require drug testing as a condition of employment would not be affected by the bill.
The bill basically serves to acknowledge that marijuana is legal for recreational use, and therefore can’t be grounds for termination based on an employer’s personal beliefs on the substance. California would join six other states (Nevada, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Montana, and Rhode Island) that currently have laws protecting recreational use by workers.
If you live in a state where marijuana use remains illegal, and you have a possession charge that is hindering your job search, we understand the struggle. Small charges can deter employers from seriously considering you. Reach out to the experts at Easy Expunctions to see if we can help you scrub the charge or arrest from your record for good and get you the second chance you deserve!