So where does that leave Indiana businesses with drug-free workplace policies?
The first thing to remember is that even if used under legal circumstances, marijuana is still a drug. Just like alcohol. Most workplaces have policies that prohibit consuming alcohol on the job and prohibit reporting to work under the influence of alcohol. There is no reason you have to treat marijuana differently, and your employee handbook probably gives your company some protections along those lines.
Even if the laws change in Indiana or if your employee used drugs while on a trip to another state or through a medical treatment program in Michigan, that does not mean you have to change your workplace rules.
Another thing to remember is that marijuana is still an illegal drug under federal law. As such, any drug-free policy that prohibits “illegal” drugs, probably still covers marijuana. But federal laws could change, and the opportunities for “legal” use of marijuana continue to expand. We, therefore, recommend that all employers review and revise their policies to address marijuana specifically and by name. Some employers have determined they want to treat marijuana differently than other substances. That may make sense for your workplace.
Finally, it is important to remember this is a developing area of the law and one that requires frequent monitoring. On June 15, 2015, employers won something of a victory in this arena. The Supreme Court of Colorado (yes, the Rocky Mountain State) ruled unanimously that an employer could terminate an employee who tested positive for marijuana, even though he only used the drug during off-duty hours for treatment of leg spasms associated with his quadriplegia. This ruling from a state that is very permissive on marijuana should give employers in Indiana and Michigan some comfort that they can enforce their drug-free policies as written.
But we have not heard the end of this issue. Reasonable accommodation for disabilities is a significant issue under federal anti-discrimination laws, and some states—Connecticut, Maine, Rhode Island, Delaware, and Arizona—have already enacted laws prohibiting discrimination against medical marijuana patients. Plus, marijuana legalization advocates will certainly redouble their efforts in light of the Colorado decision. Like so many legal issues in the workplace, employers should seek out advice regularly to make sure their policies comply with the law.
Author: Michael J. Hays is a civil litigation attorney and Partner at Tuesley Hall Konopa, LLP. His practice areas include civil litigation, employment law, business counsel, and contract review. Michael is licensed to practice in Indiana and Michigan.
You can contact Michael by calling 574.232.3538 or by email mhays@thklaw.com
Disclaimer: The THK Legal Blog is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. In no case does the published material constitute an exhaustive legal study, and applicability to a particular situation depends upon an investigation of specific facts. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. All THK blogs are considered advertising material by the Indiana Bar Association.