Workplace Drug Testing Concerns

Summary

If your employers policy only prohibits substance use during work hours, you may have legal grounds if they terminate you. Rhode Island law prohibits discrimination against medical marijuana users. However, if your job involves safety-sensitive positions, they might have different rules. For exact legal advice, please consult a local employment attorney.

Full Conversation

I work in Rhode Island, and I smoked last night on my personal time, now today at work they gave out a surprise drug testing and I’m afraid I can lose my job
Hello **** ****. Are there any specific drug policies in place at your workplace that you are aware of?
Only policies stating I cannot use substances while actively working, there are no policies stating I cannot smoke outside of work
Hello **** ****,
- If your employer's policy only prohibits substance use during work hours, you may have legal grounds if they terminate you.
- Rhode Island law prohibits discrimination against medical marijuana users.
- However, if your job involves safety-sensitive positions, they might have different rules.
For exact legal advice, please consult a local employment attorney.