Reference no: EM132920331

Here's a challenging HR issue for managers: the use of medical marijuana by employees. Although pot is still illegal at the federal level, 30 states plus the District of Columbia have now passed comprehensive medical marijuana laws, and almost one-third of those have legalized recreational use of the drug for adults 21 and older. Federal prosecutors have been directed not to bring criminal charges against marijuana users who follow their states' laws. However, that puts employers in a difficult position as they try to accommodate state laws on medical marijuana use while having to enforce federal rules or company drug-use policies based on federal laws. Although courts have generally ruled that companies do not have to accommodate medical marijuana users, legal guidance is still not all that clear. Legal experts have warned employers to not run afoul of disability and privacy laws. In addition to the legal questions, employers are concerned about the challenge of maintaining a safe workplace.

Employers should take a close look at their drug and alcohol policies to ensure that they are up to date by addressing issues such as marijuana and opioid use (another a major issue facing HR managers) in the workplace Discuss This:

1. Briefly explain ethical issue(s) do you see here?