The Senate Judiciary Committee is expected to vote today on legislation to legalize marijuana in Vermont. If the bill is approved, it is likely to be reviewed by a number of other committees before it might reach the Senate floor, including the Economic Development Committee and the Finance Committee, each of which have jurisdiction over issues of interest and concern to employers.

AIV has expressed a number of concerns for employers, particularly manufacturers and similar businesses, that would stem from marijuana legalization. Potential for increased usage and relaxed attitudes toward usage raises issues for workplace safety and workers’ compensation costs, including highlighting existing problems with limitations on drug testing, as well as for finding sufficient numbers of new hires who can pass initial drug screenings. A number of legal questions have arisen in other states surrounding workplace rules and disciplinary actions.

News and Views will address potential issues for employers in greater detail in future postings, and AIV will be engaging with the committees that will review any legalization legislation in the coming days and weeks. If you are interested in more information or options for engaging on this matter, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@aivt.org.