11/14/2023

Marijuana in the Workplace

What Issue 2 means for your organization and its employees

HR Question: Now that Issue 2, legalizing recreational marijuana in Ohio, has passed, what does it mean for my employment policies? Does this mean my drug-free workplace policies are no longer valid? How should I navigate marijuana in the workplace?

HR Answer: Medical marijuana was legalized in Ohio in September 2016, and retail sales began in January 2019, when the first four licensed dispensaries opened for business. On Dec. 7, 2023, Issue 2, decriminalizing non-medical marijuana use, will go into effect – opening the door for adults 21 and over to legally possess, purchase and share up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis. As reported by WCPO, the law isn't without its limits, however, as it prohibits:

• Using marijuana in public
• Operating a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana
• Being a passenger in a vehicle and using marijuana at the same time

Additionally, landlords, leaseholders and employers can still prohibit marijuana use based on their policies. So, what do employers need to consider as they navigate this new law?

Please select this link to read the complete blog post from Strategic HR.