Democratic Gov. Wes Moore has signed legislation (SB 439) into law prohibiting employment discrimination against firefighters and other rescue workers who use state-authorized medical cannabis products while off-duty.
Under the new law which takes effect October 1st, neither an employer or a labor organization may “discipline, discharge, or otherwise discriminate” against any fire and rescue public safety employee solely for testing positive for cannabis, if they are enrolled in the state’s medical cannabis access program.
NORML worked closely with various firefighters’ unions in support of the effort, and NORML members generated over 700 letters to lawmakers urging them to advance the bill. Testifying before lawmakers in March, NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said: “Over 100,000 residents are registered in Maryland to legally access medicinal cannabis products. This includes firefighters and other rescue workers who typically consume it to mitigate symptoms of chronic pain, post-traumatic stress, and other serious health conditions. Patients who take traditional medications – including opioids, benzodiazepines, and other therapeutics that may temporarily influence mood or judgment – do not face punishment in the workplace unless their on-the-job performance is impaired. Patients who consume medical cannabis during their off-hours should be treated equally.”
“This victory belongs to countless firefighters, advocates, and partners across Maryland who spoke up,...
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