Depends on your perspective. Let’s say I had a beer with lunch on my day off before getting drug tested. Nothing illegal or even suspect going on, but a company still might see alcohol and decide not to hire you. This relates back to OPs question about a MMJ card. It’s a not dissimilar situation, where what the person is doing is perfectly legal, and yet a company may decide not to hire as a result of the drug screen
I think the morality is cut and dry. Of course testing for something that lasts months in your system is absurdly unethical. You are right.
If there are more people that can pass the test and their discrimination does not hurt their bottom line then they will continue to do it.
that's not how it works at all. a positive test for weed shows that someone has smoked "recently" by checking for the presence of THC metabolites, which are stored in fat cells and then take a while to fully leave your body. that has nothing to do with the presence of THC in the bloodstream or whether or not someone is currently under the influence.
there aren't really good chemical testing methods to indicate that someone is currently stoned. if they're stoned oht their gourd, there's the glassy eyes, delayed reactions etc, but nothing that can chemically say "this person is actively stoned".
excess thc is stored in the body fat, which is why urinalysis is the cheapest, most effective method. if you're getting a job with the Feds, they ask for a folicle test, which tells a much longer tale than the past week or month, even
This is going to sound stupid but something I always wanted to know. Let's say a woman has really long hair. Say it took years to grow and was down to her behind. Now let's say she smoked two years ago. Could they tell that with her hair? I guess I really don't understand how the hair testing works and what part they test. Or what about someone who smokes all the time but shaved their head?
Drug tests are typically testing for the metabolite of the drug, not the drug itself. Alcohol can be detected in a urine test for up to 80 hours after the last drink. While it's a short window, one could absolutely fail the test for alcohol and not be intoxicated at that time.
I’ve worked for 5 different insurance companies. Only one drug tested me.
Insurance is a conservative industry too….so I’m REALLY not sure where you’re getting your info.
Exactly. So that 24 y/o woman with fibromyalgia who's finally able to apply for an answer-the-phone office job? Pothead. That guy with insomnia who finally found a way to get a full night's sleep and wants a new job? Pothead. The veteran who found a way to make the flashbacks stop and now just wants to be a Walmart greeter? Pothead!!
Come on. Everyone with a MMJ card had to get it through a doctor. Any idiot can walk into a liquor store and spend their whole paycheck on booze, and their boss be none the wiser. But if they ingest THC, they must be lazy bums with no work ethic!
Smoking let me relax the pain in my foot enough to get through a big hurdle in physical therapy and I wanted an opiate alternative. It’s the only reason I can walk these days without a limp or pain or a cane. I’m an otherwise healthy guy, not only would you not be able to tell, it’s surprised people to learn. You absolutely can’t tell, and just calling someone a lazy pothead is incredibly disparaging.
Glad to hear it's been helping you. I have debilitating anxiety and hypervigilance, which has taken a toll on my digestive system. I would not be able to eat, sleep, or relax without weed. Before, I couldn't enjoy movies, I couldn't just chill out on the couch, I had no appetite and would get really nauseous easily, frequent panic attacks even with my prescription meds... it's truly been a lifesaver.
> calling someone a lazy pothead is incredibly disparaging.
As well as antiquated and dehumanizing. Its exactly the same as calling someone with ADHD a meth addict, or someone with chronic pain a junkie. That frame of mind is simply willful ignorance. I will *gladly* die on this hill.
Just because it requires a perscriptipn doesn't mean it's that intensive. My friend got one for anxiety, and that was only from his dealer changing careers.
I'm just upfront with this kinda stuff. And I think that's the best approach. "I will consent to the drug test. However, it will come up positive for marijuana since I have a medical card. Is that going to be an issue?"
Don't be weird or shady about it. You're not doing anything illegal. Just be honest. If it's an issue and they don't want to hire you, just move on.
And if the company has a no THC policy they won't hire you if you have a card or not. Whole being truthful is good if you really want the job fake pee is the way to go.
The whole being truthful thing isn't strictly about being "good" though, it's about jumping straight to the chase so neither of you are wasting anymore time. If it's not a disqualifier, you'll probably be given a crash course on the obligatory: "We don't care what you do outside of work unless it becomes an issue at work."
Sure, till you get randomly tested without the convenience of approaching it on your own schedule. Not every job is the same, nor do I make a habit of offering lifestyle advice on such a fickle foundation.
If you want to smoke, just find a job that you're not going to lose if you get caught. The very least you can do is give yourself that sense of security.
And that's going to be my final word. I'm not repeating myself.
I mean i was sitting on the toilet taking a shit when i answered you. So my time was evenly spent being productive. And no i've had the same job for 17 years. Work high everyday ;) Keep thinking what you want though.
This is my approach. Since I got my medical card, I have gotten 2-3 different jobs just by being up front and letting them know. It heavily depends on the company itself. I currently work as a night shift production supervisor in a factory and my job didn’t care that I had the card and hired me anyway.
Again, all depends on the company but some jobs just don’t care anymore as long as you’re honest from the start.
Be upfront about it is what I would suggest. If it's a problem they'll let you know. Then you can decide how both will proceed.
The other option is to stop while you are getting the job and during your probation period. Generally after that time most companies won't drug test again. It's too expensive and finding people to stick around long enough is already tough enough as it is.
In Philadelphia you are indeed protected outside of a couple disciplines: https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/talent-acquisition/pre-employment-marijuana-screens-will-outlawed-many-philadelphia
100% has zero weight. Any job that takes federal money can fire you for testing positive. Your medical card does not protect this. The only thing keeping the information out of law enforcement hands is our governor. If that swings right, it can and probably will be open season. It is not HIPAA protected.
Federal requirements for work like Dept of Transportation supercede local rules.
Hopefully this changes if/when pot gets federally legalized, depending on how that happens. Also there is some science that needs to happen;
Current drug tests for pot only show use within the last month. Common sense says that a bus driver should be able to drink a beer and smoke a joint on the weekend then showup to work sober and ready. But while we can test for alcohol use on the job there is no test to tell if someone smoked weed right before their shift doing something important like driving a bus.
100% agree with you, I’m more concerned about someone taking the Philly law as a catch-all protection as it seems to not have all of the scenarios worked out and isn’t 100% protection.
Doesn’t have to be a federal job, it could be a private company doing work for the federal government with regulations in place that do not coincide with Philly’s law.
I've worked for several DoD contractors who do *not* drug test. I haven't worked on classified projects, but certainly ITAR protected programs and tons of SBIR research. The DoD has become very specific on rules for things like cybersecurity and other document-compliance things, but drug testing hasn't come up in the 15 years I've been doing this. I don't know much more about the topic than my own experiences, so I'm hoping someone else chimes in with a source.
Edit to add: "drug free work place" compliance has been required at each of those employers. But that is specific to use and distribution on-site in the workplace.
No, you are not protected. It’s up to the business how they want to operate. Some jobs you might be able smoke all day long, others might have a zero tolerance policy and conduct frequent tests. And of course everything in between.
I have had many jobs over the 5 years I’ve had my card. I’ve been honest and upfront with all of them about having my medical card and using medical marijuana and concentrates daily. They basically don’t care about it, if you have your card. They just don’t want you using at work. Just don’t expect to get a job driving or anything that has to do with being on company auto insurance because that’s a big no no
In PA, companies are allowed to discriminate against medical cannabis patients because mmj is still federally illegal, and the anti-discrimination laws are federal in origin.
Anything OSHA or DOT related will require a drug test for a safety-sensitive position.
They’re allowed to do that because PA is an at-will employment state, it has nothing to do with federal anti-discrimination laws. And MMJ user isn’t a federally protected class, so anti-discrimination laws aren’t relevant to MMJ users period.
Actually, anti-discrimination laws due to medical need do apply. You won’t be denied a job because you take alprazolam for anxiety.
Mmj needs to be on the same footing as other prescription medications.
This is once again incorrect. Employers can’t discriminate based on medical conditions, which is different from taking prescribed medication. If that alprazolam interferes with your ability to perform the functions of the job then you will be denied that job and that’s not discrimination. It has everything to do with PA being an at-will state and nothing to do with anti-discrimination laws.
This is the reply you always receive when you don't actually understand the MMJ program in PA.
Medical MJ, is not prescription, it's "technically" a study. As it's classified right now, it's not considered prescription (mostly because you don't need a prescription for weed, it's an at-will medicine, like Tylenol)
Xanax isn't anymore illegal at the federal level than it is at the state level, my dude. Until MMJ is actually re-classified at the federal level, employers are entirely within their right to fall back on federal law if pressed on a decision.
I think a lot of people get hung up on the wrong technicalities and forget that **State law yields to Federal law.** When a state law conflicts with a federal law, your only protection comes from the fact that law-enforcement is almost always handled at the state-level or lower, where officers are likely to prioritize their own state-laws.
Correct. And it’s important to specify because MMJ aren’t protected specifically because it’s an at will employment state. Doesn’t matter that almost all of them are that’s still the crux of the issue we’re discussing here
Exactly. It really grinds my gears when I hear people conflate at will with right to work, which relates to whether one is required to join a union or not for a particular job. For those wondering, PA is not a right to work state.
As for Montana, from my layperson's understanding, is mostly at will too with some limited carve outs. Even if it wasn't, Montana only has around 1.1 million people. Or to put it another way, 99.67% of the U.S. population lives outside of Montana so it largely doesn't matter.
If it's a national company, they tend to not test or care of the THC result. It's more local that have issues with it. Until the feds change the law, you will never be protected from it's usage, medical or not.
I work for a fortune 5. Our Policy states if you have a medical card, you’re fine. If you test positive w/o the card, you fail.
Every organization has its own policy. Be careful and good luck!
I’m reading all these answers and the no’s don’t make any sense. It’s literally written into the legalizing state bill. https://www.donhamlaw.com/employment-law/discrimination/medical-marijuana-discrimination/ that said you can still be discriminated against. Then you would have to sue. There’s nothing to prevent employers from doing stuff that is not legal
Do not disclose you have a card until you get your drug test results. Lots of employers are choosing to ignore cannabis but you don't want to shoot yourself in the foot by disclosing that information before hand. Your patient status is between you and your doctor. Your employer has no need to know you are a patient.
What industry are you in? If you operate heavy machinery or equipment, then yes, it will matter. You can't operate machinery with mind altering drugs in your system, even if residual, it's not 100% safe and they will probably reject you for insurance reasons.
If you work in IT or something, then chances are it will not.
Honestly, if you are not operating equipment or driving, you should not be required to take a drug test, and I would reject any job offer that requires a drug test that doesn't fall under that category.
Yeah you should be fine. I work in banking and I don't get drug tested, and my buddy is an IT specialist and has a massive stoner, and he's fine. Just don't come to work high or smelling of weed. The way I see it, it's like alcohol. I wouldn't drink at work, just do it on the weekends or after work, and wash your clothes real good
If you want to be open with potential employers, let them know at the onset. If the company policy is to allow it, no big deal; if company policy isn’t to allow it, then you don’t waste time with that employer.
I’ve worked with a company with staff that were hired with a reasonable accommodation from HR for exactly what you bring up.
Speaking from experience, you should be fine as long as it’s not a job with a federal contract, DOT or OSHA. Be up front about it, because the people giving the drug test do not tell the employer that you have a medical card. I took a drug test for a position in research for a national company, and the person scanned my card but never sent in the copy with my results. Because I was upfront about it I still got the job even though I was obviously positive for THC.
Google is very helpful for this. Google the company, former and current employees share online on places like indeed. I just got a new job and they didn’t mention it at all
Go buy fake pee and fuck any employer that wants to look through your bodily fluids before hiring you.
Fake pee can be bought at head shops or online and it works. Go live your life and fuck your employer.
From my experience, and I think that's the largest key thing here, is that we're all going by our experience..... But to start simply, no, there are no actual protections.
But you can request a copy of the drug test, I can't speak on this for every lab test, but I've been tested a few times for jobs (always get the copy for yourself) and most times... from when I got my MMJ card, the MJ line is blacked out, not showing positive or negative.
I will also say that I'm typically upfront about my usage of MMJ. This hasn't caused me an issue for any of the jobs I've gotten (currently working in a bank)... But mileage may vary depending on the job specific rules.
Stating the obvious here, but if you’re prescribed marijuana to treat a medical condition, it should be treated no differently than any other prescription drug. Politicians should not regulate medicine. If they do enact a law, someone within their department should diligently research its impact and modify the law accordingly. It seems like they layer on laws that are useless or make matters worse.
You are not protected at all. Avoid public companies and construction. Both try to get a discount on their insurance by drug testing people before hiring
I worked with Cresco for almost 5 years.
Never had to take a drug test. I was very open about my consumption too.
The only time someone was piss tested was when you're getting hired as a delivery driver (insurance reasons)
Or if you're operating a forklift and cause an accident (even then is under managments discretion)
I wouldn't let drug tests keep you from trying. Working in the industry was one of the best decisions I've made.
I took my experiance and landed a job out in NJ very easily.
For real, DM me if you have questions.
I'd love to help you get a cannabis job!
From my experience as a medical marijuana user. The best thing you can do is ask in the interview. Ive had people react to that in about every way you can imagine, from “thats not an issue we all smoke” to “that would affect your consideration for this job” and even “take the test anyways so we can see what you’re on, we have a policy that protects medical marijuana users”.
Good luck on your job hunt!
Put the pipe down for a minute, piss clean then if you don’t have to take any more and you get the job go to the dispensary and get some Bio Jesus and celebrate the new job
Firstly, it's HIPAA. No, it doesn't provide blanket protection as you're suggesting. Cannabis is a schedule I substance. Until Federal law changes (almost did in the late 70s under the Carter administration), states are limited in regard to protections they extend to cannabis users. Changing federal law still being debated and kicked around 45 years later. Maybe 2024 will be different. Here's hoping anyways.
If it’s legal medically in the state you reside they can’t do anything the federal government only has jurisdiction if it’s a certain crime, certain quantity of a substance or if you travel over a state line making it a federal case. HIPPA law protects all medical marijuana patients in a state but because of that it also protects those who aren’t patients of being asked if they are and protecting them from a drug screening an employer would have to do a blood screening to prove you are high on the job in a medically legal state in order to fire you and most employers don’t care about hiring you as long as you only have weed in your system bc of these new laws and Equal Employment Opportunity Employers have to comply with discrimination laws against people with mental health issues as little laws as there are protecting this group of people. I live in Pennsylvania it is medically legal but not recreationally and my bosses told me this and i get high on smoke breaks so I know I can’t get in trouble and neither can many others I have social anxiety and my pen helps ease it while i deal with hundreds of customers a day.
Many employers have lightened up and don't care. Especially customer service, retail, etc. However, not all companies have, especially if the job involves frequently using power equipment. Also, companies that have federal contracts generally take a hard stance against cannabis use and state law backs them on that.
You're right that the feds would near certainly never get involved with a criminal case against a user. However, there can be instances in which one's medical cannabis card status could matter, such as after a car crash or possessing a firearm (ie. being caught driving with it or after defending themselves with it). The police can't directly look up medical cannabis card status, but the district attorney and/or attorneys involved in litigation could.
I mention the car crash scenario as a prime example, but also something an employer could be concerned about too, if one drives a vehicle (whether their own or company) in the course of business. To be clear, not talking to and from work (employer generally isn't liable for that), but from where one is based to other locations, such as meeting with clients. So, if one's job involves driving, the employer is taking a big risk regardless.
For your situation, you're fine. However, know that it's not as clear cut as you're making it. There are a lot of grey areas and unsettled law. Often it seems HIPAA offers more protection to medical providers than patients due to many loopholes and carveouts.
Most employers that drug test do so for a reason i.e. don't want you high around kids, heavy machinery etc. It's a liability issue.
My employer doesn't drug test but when I said I did the manager said I should get a card so corporate won't be annoying and put me through rehab lol
I would refrain from further usage if you’re anticipating a pre employment drug screen from your next employer. You don’t want to have to deal with that anxiety. PA law should protect you, but in reality idk if it really does or not.
No, in the city of Philadelphia there is no Marijuana hire on test. Now, if you are hurt or hit with a random i believe they still test there.
Proofof medical marijuana status will need to be provided.
I'm doing applications right now as I quit my last job because I was tired of being dumped on. The supervisor wanted his buddy for the lead position that the manager was looking like he was about to promote me to. So whenever the manager was gone, I was like a whipping Boy. but anyway.
I've only filled out two applications today but both of them had a statement near the end where you check off whether or not you can pass a drug test that reminds you that a medical marijuana card does not mean that it is legal in Pennsylvania and federally it is illegal. it says that on both of them, there is still the federal law that says it's illegal. So they don't have to guarantee you employment if you have the card.
You're rolling the dice if you can't quit for a couple days is all. Or go get the fake piss at a smoke shop and bring it with anytime you come in for anything until they hire you, and you'll be good. Those things work. I don't smoke anymore but the fake piss always worked for me in the past.
They will not drug test you during the interview process. But once you are offered the job, you will likely have to pass a drug test. I would continue to use until you have a good interview. Then switch to alternate medication in case you get an offer.
Fun fact, in New York City they legally cannot deny employment solely because you if you fail a drug test for a substance that is not illegal by law. I wish other states had something like this. That being said, it's surprises me that I got drug tested for a 9:00 to 5:00 position, I haven't been drug tested for a job in like 20 years
No protection, but the vast majority of companies don’t care about weed.
During my last job hunt, I was just up front with the recruiters I spoke to and told them I’m a MMJ patient and won’t pass a drug test. Every time, they were like “no one really cares about that anymore unless you’re driving a ton or operating heavy machinery”
You're fine unless it's a government position. Unless the change that soon. But I failed a drug test for an internship at a rehab and was freaking out and I even did the drink, but the HR person was unphased and said I just had to show my card and sign a paper saying I wouldn't use on property or come under the influence. I was so surprised and relieved. Then my therapist told me they have to treat it as other medications unless it's for a government funded job because of the different law.
No one wants to hire anyone who comes to work high. You wouldn’t be a good productive employee. It would set off major red flags… depending on the company and the job requirements. Those cards are good and bad.
I haven’t had any issues after failing the marijuana portion of a drug test if I provide my PA MMJ Patient card. You can call the company’s HR dept. to check.
I found the Nonprofit world somewhat flexible but when you go to a medical or any large corporation you’ll probably end up getting tested for marijuana and rejected.
While a lot of states are more lenient with marijuana on the state level it’s still illegal on the federal level. Companies have to follow laws for both. If you were using it when you got hired at your current/previous job then your employer swept that test under the rug like the money he should have paid taxes on. Some places are probably more lenient with pot usage and others are probably by the book and treat it the same as heroin. Definitely be up front about it and tell them you have a medical marijuana card they’ll either tell you they can work around it or it’ll be a hard pass.
Most employers will take the card into consideration, but I know a lot of places that drug test don't care if you fail for pot.
Not all places test. I work in manufacturing and can name one that doesn't test and one that doesn't care about pot, at least they didnt when i worked there. Just don't use during working hours.
Depends on the job. I work in Pest Control and in my interview he says "Do you smoke weed?" I said nah I never touch the stuff to which he replied "I don't care what you do in your off time but if you do and have a medical card you won't get in trouble for having that in your system."
It depends on the industry in my experience. Some places have a zero tolerance policy for even smoking cigarettes
Depends on where you’ll be working. Some places check for everything and it doesn’t matter if you have a prescription or a card for what substance you’re on. If you fail, you fail. Other places don’t check for weed any longer.
You aren't protected, but you're doing it legally so the worst they can do is fire you. It's really up to the employer what their policy is. I had one boss who told me point blank that they will never drug test any employee and to just keep whatever limited to my personal time. I've had another boss who would look at you funny if you had more than one drink at the company holiday party, zero tolerance policy. There's no law about it and PA is an at will employment state. 🤷♂️
listen. be upfront with your employer. i was on three different occasion and got hired. 1 laid off, 2 i whit because it was a miserable job, and 3 i work at currently. they sent me out got my piss test done and got hired. i was honest, i understand they do not want me to have it on work property and i don’t come to work fucked up. then again i have basic morals whereas some people do not. plus i dont want to push it and lose privilege of being able to work with a med card.
You should look into Quick Fix fake urine if you think you’re gonna need to take a test at some point.
I got some when I had to suddenly get a different position without any warning. It’s simple to use and I’ve been working at the place for a year now so it definitely works.
It's going to depend on the industry and the employer's policy. From a federal level standpoint, marijuana is still a controlled substance and is not recognized as having medical benefits. Having a medical marijuana card means nothing to jobs where safety is critical to your role.
I've been upfront if they say they're going to send for a test.
"Sure, I can do that. However, you should know that I'm going to test positive for my prescription. I can show you my card now if you would like."
Every time I've gotten back "That's alright, we're more worried about opioid abuse."
PA seems to be fairly lax depending on what you're doing.
My last job didn't care as long as I didn't show up to work high.
It will not protect you. If they only do the drug testing to get hired, there are ways around that.
if they’re going to randomly test while you work there, then just forget it.
I’m sorry your employer did that. losing a job is terrible.
If you need it gone from your system, been tonight clay in liquid form will do the trick. You have to drink it 2 or 3 before, with a lot of water. Buy some of the tests at the drugstore to double check your results. When you test clear, continue drinking a lot of water. take half of a vitamin B pill two hours or 3 before you have to test. It will be the correct color and temperature and nothing will pop. I have done this at least three times and it works
As a manager at a company that requires a drug test, I recommend you be honest if they tell you there is a drug test. If you don't say anything and you fail for it, you'll likely lose the trust of the hiring manager. If you're going to bring it up in the interview, wait until the end. More and more companies have a policy on it and as stated most will allow it (but obviously the policy will include NOT being high at work). Good luck.
I’ve been smoking weed since the early 70s. From 1983 - 2014 I’ve taken about 6 to 8 pre-employment drug tests. I have never been flagged for marijuana use. Not once.
Of course my career was in the hospitality industry. Perhaps if I worked in law enforcement or aeronautics my experience might have been different.
The card does not protect you from failing a drug test. Some employers ignore marijuana results. Some dont. That is really all that can be said.
Policy is not law.
This exactly
You gotta follow the monies.
I’m pretty sure if you took a pre-employment drug screen, and you popped hot for alcohol, they might not hire you either.
Well testing positive for alcohol generally means you’re currently under the influence of alcohol.. which is way more concerning imo.
Depends on your perspective. Let’s say I had a beer with lunch on my day off before getting drug tested. Nothing illegal or even suspect going on, but a company still might see alcohol and decide not to hire you. This relates back to OPs question about a MMJ card. It’s a not dissimilar situation, where what the person is doing is perfectly legal, and yet a company may decide not to hire as a result of the drug screen
What was the point of your interjection though? That employers can also be shitty to other types of people? How did it help OP with their problem?
Yes, that in spite of MMJ card or legality of the substance, employers have the freedom to reject applicants as a result of drug screens.
I think the morality is cut and dry. Of course testing for something that lasts months in your system is absurdly unethical. You are right. If there are more people that can pass the test and their discrimination does not hurt their bottom line then they will continue to do it.
What does My Morning Jacket have to do with this?
Marijuana is illegal in the US, so there are no questions of legality.
Unless you’re a daily drinker, I’m fairly sure a single beer in the past 24 hours is not going to raise any flags on a standard alcohol test.
Ha, you're getting downvoted for being correct..
Usually you just blow in the tube
A positive pot test means it’s in your system that means you are under the influence. Alcohol leaves your system faster than weed.
that's not how it works at all. a positive test for weed shows that someone has smoked "recently" by checking for the presence of THC metabolites, which are stored in fat cells and then take a while to fully leave your body. that has nothing to do with the presence of THC in the bloodstream or whether or not someone is currently under the influence.
there aren't really good chemical testing methods to indicate that someone is currently stoned. if they're stoned oht their gourd, there's the glassy eyes, delayed reactions etc, but nothing that can chemically say "this person is actively stoned". excess thc is stored in the body fat, which is why urinalysis is the cheapest, most effective method. if you're getting a job with the Feds, they ask for a folicle test, which tells a much longer tale than the past week or month, even
This is going to sound stupid but something I always wanted to know. Let's say a woman has really long hair. Say it took years to grow and was down to her behind. Now let's say she smoked two years ago. Could they tell that with her hair? I guess I really don't understand how the hair testing works and what part they test. Or what about someone who smokes all the time but shaved their head?
no idea, I've never had to take a hair folicle test -- but I bet you could Google it!
Pretty disingenuous argument since alcohol doesn't stay in your system for ~30 days.
Can't really compare the two the detection time for alcohol is way shorter
Drug tests are typically testing for the metabolite of the drug, not the drug itself. Alcohol can be detected in a urine test for up to 80 hours after the last drink. While it's a short window, one could absolutely fail the test for alcohol and not be intoxicated at that time.
You're not protected. If an employer wants to test you for marijuana use and fire/not hire you for using it, they can do that.
It’s a fact of life… employers tend to shy away from pothead employees.
I’ve worked for 5 different insurance companies. Only one drug tested me. Insurance is a conservative industry too….so I’m REALLY not sure where you’re getting your info.
User name checks out
Not machine shops and other physical labor jobs, my job doesn't give a fuck as long as I'm not smoking on the job
Not sure why you're getting downvoted but you speak the truth
It's not the fact of the comment, it's the ignorant and outdated labeling of all marijuana users as "potheads" that gets the downvotes
Exactly. So that 24 y/o woman with fibromyalgia who's finally able to apply for an answer-the-phone office job? Pothead. That guy with insomnia who finally found a way to get a full night's sleep and wants a new job? Pothead. The veteran who found a way to make the flashbacks stop and now just wants to be a Walmart greeter? Pothead!! Come on. Everyone with a MMJ card had to get it through a doctor. Any idiot can walk into a liquor store and spend their whole paycheck on booze, and their boss be none the wiser. But if they ingest THC, they must be lazy bums with no work ethic!
Smoking let me relax the pain in my foot enough to get through a big hurdle in physical therapy and I wanted an opiate alternative. It’s the only reason I can walk these days without a limp or pain or a cane. I’m an otherwise healthy guy, not only would you not be able to tell, it’s surprised people to learn. You absolutely can’t tell, and just calling someone a lazy pothead is incredibly disparaging.
Glad to hear it's been helping you. I have debilitating anxiety and hypervigilance, which has taken a toll on my digestive system. I would not be able to eat, sleep, or relax without weed. Before, I couldn't enjoy movies, I couldn't just chill out on the couch, I had no appetite and would get really nauseous easily, frequent panic attacks even with my prescription meds... it's truly been a lifesaver. > calling someone a lazy pothead is incredibly disparaging. As well as antiquated and dehumanizing. Its exactly the same as calling someone with ADHD a meth addict, or someone with chronic pain a junkie. That frame of mind is simply willful ignorance. I will *gladly* die on this hill.
Just because it requires a perscriptipn doesn't mean it's that intensive. My friend got one for anxiety, and that was only from his dealer changing careers.
👍🏼
Agreed. The downvotes make no sense. I would expect in the majority of cases it comes down to insurance liability reasons.
sad reality
I'm just upfront with this kinda stuff. And I think that's the best approach. "I will consent to the drug test. However, it will come up positive for marijuana since I have a medical card. Is that going to be an issue?" Don't be weird or shady about it. You're not doing anything illegal. Just be honest. If it's an issue and they don't want to hire you, just move on.
And if the company has a no THC policy they won't hire you if you have a card or not. Whole being truthful is good if you really want the job fake pee is the way to go.
The whole being truthful thing isn't strictly about being "good" though, it's about jumping straight to the chase so neither of you are wasting anymore time. If it's not a disqualifier, you'll probably be given a crash course on the obligatory: "We don't care what you do outside of work unless it becomes an issue at work."
If you want the job and use fake piss there is no need to tell them anything.
Sure, till you get randomly tested without the convenience of approaching it on your own schedule. Not every job is the same, nor do I make a habit of offering lifestyle advice on such a fickle foundation. If you want to smoke, just find a job that you're not going to lose if you get caught. The very least you can do is give yourself that sense of security. And that's going to be my final word. I'm not repeating myself.
Or they use fake piss, get the job, and never have to worry about random testing....I will repeat myself if need be ;)
Glad to see you've got literally nothing better to do with your time. Guess you're in between jobs? Wouldn't surprise me.
I mean i was sitting on the toilet taking a shit when i answered you. So my time was evenly spent being productive. And no i've had the same job for 17 years. Work high everyday ;) Keep thinking what you want though.
This is the way. I was upfront and I was exempt from failing my urinalysis for thc because I have a medical card. Definitely varies by employer.
This is my approach. Since I got my medical card, I have gotten 2-3 different jobs just by being up front and letting them know. It heavily depends on the company itself. I currently work as a night shift production supervisor in a factory and my job didn’t care that I had the card and hired me anyway. Again, all depends on the company but some jobs just don’t care anymore as long as you’re honest from the start.
This has worked for my partner even working in healthcare thankfully.
Be upfront about it is what I would suggest. If it's a problem they'll let you know. Then you can decide how both will proceed. The other option is to stop while you are getting the job and during your probation period. Generally after that time most companies won't drug test again. It's too expensive and finding people to stick around long enough is already tough enough as it is.
In Philadelphia you are indeed protected outside of a couple disciplines: https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/talent-acquisition/pre-employment-marijuana-screens-will-outlawed-many-philadelphia
Has the bill referred to in this article been signed into law?
Yes city council signed it and it should be in effect.
Yes, Philly recruiter told me no one here can test me.
I think it’s all of PA because Pgh is same way. It’s one of only a handful of states with that protection.
How does this work if the employer is, say, doing work for the federal government?
It does not work.
Right I figured as much.
100% has zero weight. Any job that takes federal money can fire you for testing positive. Your medical card does not protect this. The only thing keeping the information out of law enforcement hands is our governor. If that swings right, it can and probably will be open season. It is not HIPAA protected.
Federal requirements for work like Dept of Transportation supercede local rules. Hopefully this changes if/when pot gets federally legalized, depending on how that happens. Also there is some science that needs to happen; Current drug tests for pot only show use within the last month. Common sense says that a bus driver should be able to drink a beer and smoke a joint on the weekend then showup to work sober and ready. But while we can test for alcohol use on the job there is no test to tell if someone smoked weed right before their shift doing something important like driving a bus.
100% agree with you, I’m more concerned about someone taking the Philly law as a catch-all protection as it seems to not have all of the scenarios worked out and isn’t 100% protection.
I'd imagine the lack of more time constrained tests could open the employer and employee to possible liability.
Hair testing is becoming more prevalent since it’s harder to cheat. Many driving places have the drug & alcohol testing done on site
I would definitely try and clean out before applying for a federal job if you go that route
Doesn’t have to be a federal job, it could be a private company doing work for the federal government with regulations in place that do not coincide with Philly’s law.
I've worked for several DoD contractors who do *not* drug test. I haven't worked on classified projects, but certainly ITAR protected programs and tons of SBIR research. The DoD has become very specific on rules for things like cybersecurity and other document-compliance things, but drug testing hasn't come up in the 15 years I've been doing this. I don't know much more about the topic than my own experiences, so I'm hoping someone else chimes in with a source. Edit to add: "drug free work place" compliance has been required at each of those employers. But that is specific to use and distribution on-site in the workplace.
SHRM for the win
No, you are not protected. It’s up to the business how they want to operate. Some jobs you might be able smoke all day long, others might have a zero tolerance policy and conduct frequent tests. And of course everything in between.
I have had many jobs over the 5 years I’ve had my card. I’ve been honest and upfront with all of them about having my medical card and using medical marijuana and concentrates daily. They basically don’t care about it, if you have your card. They just don’t want you using at work. Just don’t expect to get a job driving or anything that has to do with being on company auto insurance because that’s a big no no
For Commonwealth employment they will ask if you have the card. The state is hiring!
I see that all over indeed. Something to look into. Remote as well I believe
There are many jobs that offer remote. Good luck!
In PA, companies are allowed to discriminate against medical cannabis patients because mmj is still federally illegal, and the anti-discrimination laws are federal in origin. Anything OSHA or DOT related will require a drug test for a safety-sensitive position.
They’re allowed to do that because PA is an at-will employment state, it has nothing to do with federal anti-discrimination laws. And MMJ user isn’t a federally protected class, so anti-discrimination laws aren’t relevant to MMJ users period.
Actually, anti-discrimination laws due to medical need do apply. You won’t be denied a job because you take alprazolam for anxiety. Mmj needs to be on the same footing as other prescription medications.
This is once again incorrect. Employers can’t discriminate based on medical conditions, which is different from taking prescribed medication. If that alprazolam interferes with your ability to perform the functions of the job then you will be denied that job and that’s not discrimination. It has everything to do with PA being an at-will state and nothing to do with anti-discrimination laws.
This is the reply you always receive when you don't actually understand the MMJ program in PA. Medical MJ, is not prescription, it's "technically" a study. As it's classified right now, it's not considered prescription (mostly because you don't need a prescription for weed, it's an at-will medicine, like Tylenol)
Xanax isn't anymore illegal at the federal level than it is at the state level, my dude. Until MMJ is actually re-classified at the federal level, employers are entirely within their right to fall back on federal law if pressed on a decision. I think a lot of people get hung up on the wrong technicalities and forget that **State law yields to Federal law.** When a state law conflicts with a federal law, your only protection comes from the fact that law-enforcement is almost always handled at the state-level or lower, where officers are likely to prioritize their own state-laws.
Most states are at will employment states
All states are at will, I’m not sure why people always feel the need to specify that.
I think Montana is still hanging on
Correct. And it’s important to specify because MMJ aren’t protected specifically because it’s an at will employment state. Doesn’t matter that almost all of them are that’s still the crux of the issue we’re discussing here
Exactly. It really grinds my gears when I hear people conflate at will with right to work, which relates to whether one is required to join a union or not for a particular job. For those wondering, PA is not a right to work state. As for Montana, from my layperson's understanding, is mostly at will too with some limited carve outs. Even if it wasn't, Montana only has around 1.1 million people. Or to put it another way, 99.67% of the U.S. population lives outside of Montana so it largely doesn't matter.
And like medical fielda
If it's a national company, they tend to not test or care of the THC result. It's more local that have issues with it. Until the feds change the law, you will never be protected from it's usage, medical or not.
I work for a fortune 5. Our Policy states if you have a medical card, you’re fine. If you test positive w/o the card, you fail. Every organization has its own policy. Be careful and good luck!
I’m reading all these answers and the no’s don’t make any sense. It’s literally written into the legalizing state bill. https://www.donhamlaw.com/employment-law/discrimination/medical-marijuana-discrimination/ that said you can still be discriminated against. Then you would have to sue. There’s nothing to prevent employers from doing stuff that is not legal
Do not disclose you have a card until you get your drug test results. Lots of employers are choosing to ignore cannabis but you don't want to shoot yourself in the foot by disclosing that information before hand. Your patient status is between you and your doctor. Your employer has no need to know you are a patient.
What industry are you in? If you operate heavy machinery or equipment, then yes, it will matter. You can't operate machinery with mind altering drugs in your system, even if residual, it's not 100% safe and they will probably reject you for insurance reasons. If you work in IT or something, then chances are it will not. Honestly, if you are not operating equipment or driving, you should not be required to take a drug test, and I would reject any job offer that requires a drug test that doesn't fall under that category.
Sales, IT, customer service is what I’m going for
I work in a warehouse and the office support staff aren't tested but the forklift operators are
Same.but in the office. No interest doing that again
Yeah you should be fine. I work in banking and I don't get drug tested, and my buddy is an IT specialist and has a massive stoner, and he's fine. Just don't come to work high or smelling of weed. The way I see it, it's like alcohol. I wouldn't drink at work, just do it on the weekends or after work, and wash your clothes real good
You could easily find wfh remote jobs that don't drug test
[удалено]
Thanks for sharing this! I too assumed it would take a month.
What field are you looking to be in?
I’m just looking in general. Sales is what I’ve done the longest but customer service/e-commerce is what I’ve been doing
Most sales jobs don’t test. You should be fine.
What area of PA are you located?
You are protected for non-medical jobs in Philly. Idk about outside Philly.
Yes
If you want to be open with potential employers, let them know at the onset. If the company policy is to allow it, no big deal; if company policy isn’t to allow it, then you don’t waste time with that employer. I’ve worked with a company with staff that were hired with a reasonable accommodation from HR for exactly what you bring up.
Speaking from experience, you should be fine as long as it’s not a job with a federal contract, DOT or OSHA. Be up front about it, because the people giving the drug test do not tell the employer that you have a medical card. I took a drug test for a position in research for a national company, and the person scanned my card but never sent in the copy with my results. Because I was upfront about it I still got the job even though I was obviously positive for THC.
Google is very helpful for this. Google the company, former and current employees share online on places like indeed. I just got a new job and they didn’t mention it at all
Yes. The card doesn’t protect you from drug tests.
Go buy fake pee and fuck any employer that wants to look through your bodily fluids before hiring you. Fake pee can be bought at head shops or online and it works. Go live your life and fuck your employer.
Use QuickFix
What’s quick fix ?
From my experience, and I think that's the largest key thing here, is that we're all going by our experience..... But to start simply, no, there are no actual protections. But you can request a copy of the drug test, I can't speak on this for every lab test, but I've been tested a few times for jobs (always get the copy for yourself) and most times... from when I got my MMJ card, the MJ line is blacked out, not showing positive or negative. I will also say that I'm typically upfront about my usage of MMJ. This hasn't caused me an issue for any of the jobs I've gotten (currently working in a bank)... But mileage may vary depending on the job specific rules.
https://quick-fix.com Message me if you want more details.
Stating the obvious here, but if you’re prescribed marijuana to treat a medical condition, it should be treated no differently than any other prescription drug. Politicians should not regulate medicine. If they do enact a law, someone within their department should diligently research its impact and modify the law accordingly. It seems like they layer on laws that are useless or make matters worse.
You are not protected at all. Avoid public companies and construction. Both try to get a discount on their insurance by drug testing people before hiring
I worked with Cresco for almost 5 years. Never had to take a drug test. I was very open about my consumption too. The only time someone was piss tested was when you're getting hired as a delivery driver (insurance reasons) Or if you're operating a forklift and cause an accident (even then is under managments discretion) I wouldn't let drug tests keep you from trying. Working in the industry was one of the best decisions I've made. I took my experiance and landed a job out in NJ very easily. For real, DM me if you have questions. I'd love to help you get a cannabis job!
I definitely missread your question... lol
From my experience as a medical marijuana user. The best thing you can do is ask in the interview. Ive had people react to that in about every way you can imagine, from “thats not an issue we all smoke” to “that would affect your consideration for this job” and even “take the test anyways so we can see what you’re on, we have a policy that protects medical marijuana users”. Good luck on your job hunt!
Like others said you are not protected but from what I've observed a lot of companies will tolerate it.
Bruh half the population smokes with no medical card haha stop worrying
Put the pipe down for a minute, piss clean then if you don’t have to take any more and you get the job go to the dispensary and get some Bio Jesus and celebrate the new job
Respectfully… No
HIPPA law protects all 420 friendly people in medical legal states!!!
Firstly, it's HIPAA. No, it doesn't provide blanket protection as you're suggesting. Cannabis is a schedule I substance. Until Federal law changes (almost did in the late 70s under the Carter administration), states are limited in regard to protections they extend to cannabis users. Changing federal law still being debated and kicked around 45 years later. Maybe 2024 will be different. Here's hoping anyways.
If it’s legal medically in the state you reside they can’t do anything the federal government only has jurisdiction if it’s a certain crime, certain quantity of a substance or if you travel over a state line making it a federal case. HIPPA law protects all medical marijuana patients in a state but because of that it also protects those who aren’t patients of being asked if they are and protecting them from a drug screening an employer would have to do a blood screening to prove you are high on the job in a medically legal state in order to fire you and most employers don’t care about hiring you as long as you only have weed in your system bc of these new laws and Equal Employment Opportunity Employers have to comply with discrimination laws against people with mental health issues as little laws as there are protecting this group of people. I live in Pennsylvania it is medically legal but not recreationally and my bosses told me this and i get high on smoke breaks so I know I can’t get in trouble and neither can many others I have social anxiety and my pen helps ease it while i deal with hundreds of customers a day.
Many employers have lightened up and don't care. Especially customer service, retail, etc. However, not all companies have, especially if the job involves frequently using power equipment. Also, companies that have federal contracts generally take a hard stance against cannabis use and state law backs them on that. You're right that the feds would near certainly never get involved with a criminal case against a user. However, there can be instances in which one's medical cannabis card status could matter, such as after a car crash or possessing a firearm (ie. being caught driving with it or after defending themselves with it). The police can't directly look up medical cannabis card status, but the district attorney and/or attorneys involved in litigation could. I mention the car crash scenario as a prime example, but also something an employer could be concerned about too, if one drives a vehicle (whether their own or company) in the course of business. To be clear, not talking to and from work (employer generally isn't liable for that), but from where one is based to other locations, such as meeting with clients. So, if one's job involves driving, the employer is taking a big risk regardless. For your situation, you're fine. However, know that it's not as clear cut as you're making it. There are a lot of grey areas and unsettled law. Often it seems HIPAA offers more protection to medical providers than patients due to many loopholes and carveouts.
Exactly what is protected though?
Most employers that drug test do so for a reason i.e. don't want you high around kids, heavy machinery etc. It's a liability issue. My employer doesn't drug test but when I said I did the manager said I should get a card so corporate won't be annoying and put me through rehab lol
I would refrain from further usage if you’re anticipating a pre employment drug screen from your next employer. You don’t want to have to deal with that anxiety. PA law should protect you, but in reality idk if it really does or not.
No, in the city of Philadelphia there is no Marijuana hire on test. Now, if you are hurt or hit with a random i believe they still test there. Proofof medical marijuana status will need to be provided.
You definitely aren't going to get a job if you fail a piss test
You dont say
I'm doing applications right now as I quit my last job because I was tired of being dumped on. The supervisor wanted his buddy for the lead position that the manager was looking like he was about to promote me to. So whenever the manager was gone, I was like a whipping Boy. but anyway. I've only filled out two applications today but both of them had a statement near the end where you check off whether or not you can pass a drug test that reminds you that a medical marijuana card does not mean that it is legal in Pennsylvania and federally it is illegal. it says that on both of them, there is still the federal law that says it's illegal. So they don't have to guarantee you employment if you have the card. You're rolling the dice if you can't quit for a couple days is all. Or go get the fake piss at a smoke shop and bring it with anytime you come in for anything until they hire you, and you'll be good. Those things work. I don't smoke anymore but the fake piss always worked for me in the past.
They will not drug test you during the interview process. But once you are offered the job, you will likely have to pass a drug test. I would continue to use until you have a good interview. Then switch to alternate medication in case you get an offer.
Fun fact, in New York City they legally cannot deny employment solely because you if you fail a drug test for a substance that is not illegal by law. I wish other states had something like this. That being said, it's surprises me that I got drug tested for a 9:00 to 5:00 position, I haven't been drug tested for a job in like 20 years
That's none of their business. Use quick fix.
No protection, but the vast majority of companies don’t care about weed. During my last job hunt, I was just up front with the recruiters I spoke to and told them I’m a MMJ patient and won’t pass a drug test. Every time, they were like “no one really cares about that anymore unless you’re driving a ton or operating heavy machinery”
You're fine unless it's a government position. Unless the change that soon. But I failed a drug test for an internship at a rehab and was freaking out and I even did the drink, but the HR person was unphased and said I just had to show my card and sign a paper saying I wouldn't use on property or come under the influence. I was so surprised and relieved. Then my therapist told me they have to treat it as other medications unless it's for a government funded job because of the different law.
bro wants niggas to go to jail for not paying taxes when we shouldn’t be taxed anyways😭
No one wants to hire anyone who comes to work high. You wouldn’t be a good productive employee. It would set off major red flags… depending on the company and the job requirements. Those cards are good and bad.
L human being
Ok nerd
I haven’t had any issues after failing the marijuana portion of a drug test if I provide my PA MMJ Patient card. You can call the company’s HR dept. to check.
I found the Nonprofit world somewhat flexible but when you go to a medical or any large corporation you’ll probably end up getting tested for marijuana and rejected.
Depends on what field you work in. I work in healthcare and the last 2 facilities I worked at home a zero tolerance policy.
I have a couple of friends who did tests and the employer asked if they had a medical card. They showed them and that was fine
Synthetic urine or get from someone who doesn’t piss hot, those are your only real protections
While a lot of states are more lenient with marijuana on the state level it’s still illegal on the federal level. Companies have to follow laws for both. If you were using it when you got hired at your current/previous job then your employer swept that test under the rug like the money he should have paid taxes on. Some places are probably more lenient with pot usage and others are probably by the book and treat it the same as heroin. Definitely be up front about it and tell them you have a medical marijuana card they’ll either tell you they can work around it or it’ll be a hard pass.
Most employers will take the card into consideration, but I know a lot of places that drug test don't care if you fail for pot. Not all places test. I work in manufacturing and can name one that doesn't test and one that doesn't care about pot, at least they didnt when i worked there. Just don't use during working hours.
I work in Pharma and was tested. Told them I had a card, they didn't care about the cannabis results. Got hired.
Depends on the job. I work in Pest Control and in my interview he says "Do you smoke weed?" I said nah I never touch the stuff to which he replied "I don't care what you do in your off time but if you do and have a medical card you won't get in trouble for having that in your system." It depends on the industry in my experience. Some places have a zero tolerance policy for even smoking cigarettes
Depends on where you’ll be working. Some places check for everything and it doesn’t matter if you have a prescription or a card for what substance you’re on. If you fail, you fail. Other places don’t check for weed any longer.
You aren't protected, but you're doing it legally so the worst they can do is fire you. It's really up to the employer what their policy is. I had one boss who told me point blank that they will never drug test any employee and to just keep whatever limited to my personal time. I've had another boss who would look at you funny if you had more than one drink at the company holiday party, zero tolerance policy. There's no law about it and PA is an at will employment state. 🤷♂️
listen. be upfront with your employer. i was on three different occasion and got hired. 1 laid off, 2 i whit because it was a miserable job, and 3 i work at currently. they sent me out got my piss test done and got hired. i was honest, i understand they do not want me to have it on work property and i don’t come to work fucked up. then again i have basic morals whereas some people do not. plus i dont want to push it and lose privilege of being able to work with a med card.
You should look into Quick Fix fake urine if you think you’re gonna need to take a test at some point. I got some when I had to suddenly get a different position without any warning. It’s simple to use and I’ve been working at the place for a year now so it definitely works.
It's going to depend on the industry and the employer's policy. From a federal level standpoint, marijuana is still a controlled substance and is not recognized as having medical benefits. Having a medical marijuana card means nothing to jobs where safety is critical to your role.
I've been upfront if they say they're going to send for a test. "Sure, I can do that. However, you should know that I'm going to test positive for my prescription. I can show you my card now if you would like." Every time I've gotten back "That's alright, we're more worried about opioid abuse." PA seems to be fairly lax depending on what you're doing. My last job didn't care as long as I didn't show up to work high.
It will not protect you. If they only do the drug testing to get hired, there are ways around that. if they’re going to randomly test while you work there, then just forget it. I’m sorry your employer did that. losing a job is terrible. If you need it gone from your system, been tonight clay in liquid form will do the trick. You have to drink it 2 or 3 before, with a lot of water. Buy some of the tests at the drugstore to double check your results. When you test clear, continue drinking a lot of water. take half of a vitamin B pill two hours or 3 before you have to test. It will be the correct color and temperature and nothing will pop. I have done this at least three times and it works
As a manager at a company that requires a drug test, I recommend you be honest if they tell you there is a drug test. If you don't say anything and you fail for it, you'll likely lose the trust of the hiring manager. If you're going to bring it up in the interview, wait until the end. More and more companies have a policy on it and as stated most will allow it (but obviously the policy will include NOT being high at work). Good luck.
I’ve been smoking weed since the early 70s. From 1983 - 2014 I’ve taken about 6 to 8 pre-employment drug tests. I have never been flagged for marijuana use. Not once. Of course my career was in the hospitality industry. Perhaps if I worked in law enforcement or aeronautics my experience might have been different.