Government Loosens Past Drug Use Rules To Attract Younger Workers

As an increasing number of states legalize marijuana and the battle for top talent intensifies, the U.S. government revised its guidelines, shedding the vestiges of the "Just Say No" era. 

Don’t Miss: Why Jason Calacanis and Other Silicon Valley Elites Are Betting On This Startups Vision For Re-Uniting American Families

For years, undergoing a drug test by providing a urine sample was a widely accepted albeit inconvenient prerequisite for starting a new job. But the legalization of marijuana in numerous states has disrupted this practice, compelling many employers to abandon the hiring rules of the past.

The federal government, the country’s largest employer, had long been a notable exception, maintaining stringent drug-screening policies. But now it’s following suit, significantly relaxing its drug testing protocols as agencies grapple with the challenge of replenishing their ranks amid a rapidly aging workforce and a competitive job market.

Over the past five years, the U.S. military granted a grace period to more than 3,400 new recruits who failed their initial drug test, allowing them an opportunity to try again. Recognizing the changing landscape, esteemed agencies such as the CIA and the FBI have also adopted more lenient rules regarding past marijuana use among prospective job candidates, officials have confirmed.

Building upon these adaptations, the Biden administration is expected to make another significant move later this year by reducing the level of scrutiny applied to the drug histories of people applying for security clearances.

To stay updated with top startup news and investments, sign up for Benzinga's Startup Investing & Equity Crowdfunding Newsletter

The evolving attitudes toward drug use, coupled with the growing need for a younger workforce, have propelled the federal government to reassess its stance on past drug use in hiring. As more states embrace marijuana legalization, the previous hardline approach has become increasingly untenable. The government now seeks to align its policies with the changing societal and legal landscape.

While relaxing drug screening rules may be seen as a necessary adaptation in the face of evolving norms, critics argue that it raises concerns about safety, security and the ability to maintain a drug-free workplace. Striking a balance between attracting new talent and ensuring the well-being and efficacy of the workforce will undoubtedly be a challenge for federal agencies moving forward.

As the U.S. government endeavors to navigate a shifting landscape, it is clear that traditional hiring practices are being reevaluated and adjusted to meet the demands of a changing society. Loosening restrictions on past drug use in federal hiring is just one example of the ongoing adaptation required to maintain a skilled and diverse workforce in an ever-evolving world.

According to recent polls, over 50% of Americans have engaged in recreational or medical marijuana use, and the majority of the population supports its legalization. 

Turbulent Investing

It's no secret the cannabis market hasn't been the most lucrative investing market. Tilray Brands Inc. TLRY was once worth north of $60 billion before retreating to its current point. Inconsistent regulation on the federal front has largely caused growth in the market to stagnate.

The one exception to this being the CBD market which has grown to a $15 billion market in 2022. And the market is expected to reach $62 billion by 2032. There aren't many public companies in the CBD market, but investors have seen success and optimism in other markets. For example, Chow420 recently launched on StartEngine, which means retail investors can claim a stake in the company. Chow420 is a company at the forefront of the legal cannabis industry, leveraging innovative technologies to provide customers with safe, reliable and high-quality CBD and cannabis products. The company has previously raised $1.7 million from retail investors. 

See more on startup investing from Benzinga.

• Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos And Retail Investors All Have One Thing In Common: They’re Investing Millions In Brain Technology Startups
• Kevin O’Leary Is Making It Easier Than Ever To Become A Venture Capitalist With Just $100