September 7, 2023 08:00 am ETEstimated Read Time: 4 Minutes
New York’s Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA), enacted in March 2021, restructured the state’s labor laws on cannabis use. As cannabis gains traction and social acceptance, there’s an all-time high need for New York employees (and employers) to understand the legal provision for cannabis use, both in the workplace and off work. Here’s a comprehensive guide on New York’s cannabis workplace policies.
Understanding New York’s Employee Drug Testing Policy
New York’s MRTA introduced a trail-blazing development to cannabis workplace rules. New York’s cannabis policies may lay the groundwork for other states to follow suit.
The ACT makes New York one of the first to largely prohibit employers from testing employees and applicants for cannabis use but with these exceptions:
Mandatory Testing
Employers may conduct drug tests if required under state or federal law or if they risk losing federal benefits without drug testing.
Cannabis Impairment
If an employee displays specific and articulable symptoms of cannabis impairment that interfere with their job duties or workplace safety, the employer may screen for drug use.
By law, merely perceiving a cannabis-like smell on staff isn’t a sufficient cause for a drug test.
New York’s Cannabis Workplace Policies on Sealing Prior Cannabis Convictions
New York’s Cannabis Control Board has taken a progressive step to expunge around 203,000 cannabis-related charges from background checks. As part of the MRTA, these records will be (sealed) taken off public space or expunged(wholly wiped out), granting one-time cannabis convicts a fresh start.
Workplace Cannabis Use and On-Call Shifts
Although you may use cannabis, never around the workplace, whether through infused foods and beverages or during breaks.
Note that on-call shifts are regarded as “work hours”; hence, it is expected you stay off cannabis during these periods.
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New York’s Cannabis Workplace Policies on Remote Work and Off-Site Use
If you work from home, your home isn’t considered a “workplace.” However, your employer can take action if you show signs of being impaired by cannabis during work hours and may enact rules for using cannabis while working.
Employers can’t stop workers from using cannabis while on leave or off the workplace, except for reasons highlighted in the Labor Law exceptions.
Your employer may ban cannabis use in a company vehicle, even if you use it after work hours.
Prohibiting Cannabis Use as a Condition of Employment
Employers are forbidden to ask employees to waive their cannabis use rights as a condition of employment. Section 201-D of the state Labor Law strips employers of the right to compel employees or applicants into giving up their rights to legal cannabis.
Balancing Medical Cannabis Use in the Workplace
The Compassionate Care Act protects certified medical marijuana patients in New York.
Employers, however, may still impose restrictions under specific circumstances:
Prohibiting Workplace Use: Employers can enforce policies prohibiting cannabis use during company time or in the work environment.
Federal Law Compliance: Hirers need not make exceptions for medical cannabis use if it conflicts with federal laws, contracts, or funding.
Disability Protection: Employers should be cautious about associating signs of impairment with cannabis use, as they may actually be a disability. State Human Rights Law prohibits using such signs as grounds for dismissal or discrimination.
Employer Liability for Continued Cannabis Drug Tests
With few exceptions, employers are now barred from using cannabis use or drug screenings as a basis for refusing employment. The 2021 Amazon class action suit (filed by employees against the e-commerce giant for its drug test policy) is a stark reminder of the implication of screening employees for cannabis use.
Playing It Safe at Work With Your Cannabis Consumption
Your New York medical cannabis card may save you from employment discrimination and invasive drug tests, but find out on-hours consumption rules and exceptions, if any. This helps you smoothly align your cannabis use with work. So you can indulge without getting fired.
As New York’s legal cannabis grows, it’s rewarding to stay up to date with the legislation, particularly regarding your workplace rights and responsibilities.
Knowing these legal limits will help you set good boundaries with your cannabis consumption in compliant workplace environments. Education and open communication will help create a harmonious balance between your personal cannabis use and workplace ethics.
Destiny Obasohan is a staunch advocate for cannabis legalization and education. He's committed to providing accurate and insightful information to help readers make informed decisions about cannabis use. When not writing, he’s exploring new strains, attending industry events, connecting with fellow cannabis enthusiasts, or teaching his Lhasa Apso some new tricks.
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The statements made regarding cannabis products on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Cannabis is not an FDA-approved substance and is still illegal under federal law. The information provided on this website is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is not intended as medical advice and should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. We strongly recommend that you consult with a physician or other qualified healthcare provider before using any cannabis products. The use of any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk.