In recent weeks, the governor of Louisiana, John Bel Edwards (D) has signed approximately a dozen cannabis measures which would suggest a step in the right direction as advocates are pushing for greater reforms when it comes to the legalization of recreational cannabis.
One of the more prominent bills that was signed provides workplace protection for almost all state employees who are registered medical marijuana patients. House bill 988 put forward by Rep. Mandie Landry (D) protects employees from being terminated for using medical marijuana provided they are a registered medical marijuana patient. It further goes on to protect prospective employees from being subjected to negative employment consequences as a result of testing positive for THC.
There are some exceptions to the protection extended by this bill as employees can still be terminated if they are found to be intoxicated from marijuana while at work. Furthermore, employees can still face consequences from their employer if they test positive for marijuana metabolites. This is only applicable to individuals who are required to operate a vehicle as part of their job requirement or for any emergency service employees.
The bill was signed into law on June 18th as Act 651, and it will take effect on August 1st.
Landry has said that protecting state employees from using medical cannabis is just the beginning of what the state of Louisiana has planned for cannabis reform. There are talks to potentially extend the protection to cover workers in the private sector. The current challenge they are facing is the lack of accurate testing to detect cannabis impairment.
The state of Louisiana is shifting towards a more cannabis accepting state. Six in ten voters in Louisiana support the legalization of recreational marijuana use according to a survey conducted by the University of New Orleans that was published in April. This change in public perception has been acknowledged and acted upon by law makers in the state. Since 2020, there has been several bills that have made medical marijuana more accessible for those that need it. Furthermore, Edwards has decriminalized the possession of up to 14 grams of cannabis. He has made it punishable by a $100 fine and has eliminated jail time.
Edwards has previously said that he thinks that the legalization of marijuana in the state of Louisiana is inevitable. However, he does not believe that it will happen before his term ends in 2024.
The state of Louisiana is definitely one to keep an eye on when it comes to the legalization of recreational marijuana. While the governor is under the impression that it will not happen any time soon, there are several polls indicating that the public supports the legalization of recreational marijuana even in areas with strong conservative beliefs. It is now up to policy makers to listen to the voters and establish much needed reform.
CansultED.
