Many drug related laws in the US are left to the state’s jurisdiction. This means that each state has a unique landscape of drug use and drug tolerance. This is specifically the case when it comes to drug testing in the workplace. Last year, over 500 bills related to drug testing were introduced. The aim of this is to increase the number of states where this type of testing is legal.
In the wake of the legalization of marijuana, positive marijuana tests have increased by over 45%. Experts warn that this could have serious implications for safety-centric industries and for workers who regularly operate dangerous machinery. In fact, recreational marijuana laws are associated with a 10% increase in workplace injuries among younger employees. In order to maintain safety in these industries, many states are beginning to implement drug testing laws and anti-tampering policies.
States like Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and North Carolina are among the ten states that have already put anti-cheating policies in place. Additionally, more and more industries are now testing their workforce, with energy utilities leading the charge. Other affected industries like transportation and manufacturing are following close behind in the effort, ensuring that their employees and those that they serve are prepared for the future of drug tolerance in the United States.
Source: USDrugTestCenters.com