Maryland lawmakers are considering a bill that would allow firefighters and rescue workers to use medical cannabis off duty without facing employer penalties. Supporters argue that medical cannabis should be treated like other doctor-prescribed medications and can help with job-related conditions like chronic pain and PTSD. The bill, which passed the Senate and awaits movement in the House, would still prohibit on-the-job impairment. Opponents worry about the lack of reliable impairment testing, leading to an amendment requiring employers to report impaired workers. If passed, this could set a precedent for expanding protections to other professions.
See "Maryland bill would allow firefighters to use medical cannabis when off duty", Madeleine O'Neill, The Baltimore Banner, March 21, 2025