NMACI is asking for better employer protections in the bill that would legalize cannabis in NM

New Mexico Association of Commerce and Industry (NMACI) today announced that it cannot support the Cannabis Regulation Act (HB356) as it is written due to serious concerns over workplace safety. ACI will testify against the bill’s incomplete language at a House Health and Human Services Committee hearing on Saturday, Feb. 9, in Santa Fe.

The bill, HB356, which is sponsored by five representatives, would legalize cannabis as a recreational drug by eliminating the penalties associated with it. However, the current language does not allow employers to create a safe environment and it restricts their ability to enforce drug-free workplace policies.

“This would create a nightmare for employers who value drug-free and safe workplaces because they would not be able to enforce workplace safety rules,” said Rob Black, CEO of NMACI. “There needs to be protections for employers to maintain their existing drug-free workplace policies and to protect those who, for example, drive company vehicles, operate heavy machinery or even interact with customers. There’s a huge amount of liability created.”

Other states have introduced language that can protect employees and employers. ACI will present language that can address these serious issues.

“ACI has not taken a position regarding the adult recreational use of cannabis, but is very concerned about employee health and employer liability,” Black said.