NBA's Historic Agreement Lifts Marijuana Ban, Allows Players To Invest In Companies

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) officially signed a collective bargaining agreement that removes marijuana from the league's list of prohibited substances, reported Marijuana Moment.

Under the new agreement, players will no longer face penalties for marijuana use, putting it on par with alcohol consumption within the league.

Players are now allowed to hold a stake in entities that produce or sell CBD products containing up to 0.3 percent THC — as defined by the federal hemp definition. They can also passively invest in marijuana companies, provided their ownership remains below 50 percent.

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In terms of endorsements, players are permitted to promote any brand, product, or service associated with CBD, except for marijuana companies.

However, players have the option to seek written permission from both the NBA and the Players Association to endorse CBD products from marijuana companies, subject to specific conditions and criteria.

The agreement also addresses penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances, as well as felonies related to marijuana distribution. It establishes mandatory evaluations for players suspected of being under the influence during team activities, with provisions for seeking assistance for dependency or related issues.

Non-compliance with mandatory treatment programs for alcohol or marijuana will result in disciplinary action, including daily fines. Additionally, a voluntary treatment program is introduced for players seeking help with synthetic cannabinoids like delta-8 THC without penalties for entry.

However, failure to comply after entering the program may lead to fines and possible suspensions.

The agreement marks a significant milestone in professional sports, and reflects changing attitudes toward player well-being.

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