California’s governor, Gavin Newsom, has signed a bill that prohibits employers from asking job applicants about their previous marijuana use. This legislation, designed to protect employment rights related to cannabis, builds upon previous laws that prevent employers from penalizing employees for off-duty marijuana use in compliance with state law. The new law, effective January 1, 2024, makes it illegal for employers to inquire about an applicant’s prior cannabis use, with exceptions for certain industries and positions that require federal background checks.
Governor Newsom also vetoed a bill aimed at legalizing cannabis cafes, while signing others that bring changes to the state’s marijuana laws, including equity, tracking, testing, and licensing.
This move reflects a broader trend in the United States, with several states enacting policies to protect job applicants and employees from discrimination based on their lawful use of marijuana during their personal time. Federal agencies like the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives have adjusted their employment policies regarding marijuana use, and even the Secret Service has relaxed restrictions on prior marijuana use for prospective agents.
In California, Governor Newsom also vetoed a bill that sought to legalize certain psychedelics but expressed a desire for future legislation to establish guidelines for regulated therapeutic access to these substances and potentially consider broader decriminalization.
On a separate note, Newsom recently signed legislation allowing doctors to prescribe certain illicit drugs like psilocybin and MDMA if they are federally rescheduled.
By FCCT Editorial Team
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