The U.S. Senate Committee recently approved the DOOBIE Act, which prevents agencies from using past marijuana use to deny employment. This marks a substantial change in federal employment policies regarding past marijuana use.
The legislation is titled the Dismantling Outdated Obstacles and Barriers to Individual Employment, or DOOBIE, Act, as stated in Marijuana Moment. The measure cleared the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, which is chaired by the bill sponsor, Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI), in a 9-5 vote.
What the DOOBIE Act Means for the Cannabis Industry
The bill states that covered agencies “may not base a suitability determination with respect to an individual solely on the past use of marijuana by the individual.” The White House Office of Personnel Management (OPM) would also need to adopt that policy, according to Marijuana Moment.
The bill also states that “the head of a Federal agency may not base a determination that a covered person is ineligible for a security clearance solely on the past use of marijuana by the covered person.” Additionally, agencies can’t use prior cannabis use to deny a personal identity verification credential, which enables federal workers to access various facilities and information.
“From an HR perspective in the cannabis industry, this legislation could significantly expand the talent pool by removing barriers that previously disqualified candidates with prior cannabis use,” says Tyler Priest, chief revenue officer at Green Leaf Business Solutions.
“It may also further reduce the stigma associated with working in the cannabis sector, making it more attractive to professionals from diverse backgrounds,” he continues. “These diverse backgrounds can also create ‘A’ type employees to be more willing to work in this industry. Overall, this shift could lead to increased workforce diversity and expertise within the industry, fostering growth and innovation.”
What Happens Next?
The U.S. comptroller general will have an oversight responsibility to ensure this reform is being implemented correctly. A briefing also needs to be held within 18 months to discuss the assessment of the law’s implementation, according to Marijuana Moment. A report will then be issued by a specific date that will then be determined by the bicameral committee.
