OREGON HOUSE REPUBLICANS

OREGON HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

 

HOUSE REPUBLICANS WORK TO KEEP MEDICAL MARIJUANA

OUT OF THE WORKPLACE

Businesses Need Clarity to Assure Employee and Customer Safety

 

SALEM— House Republicans this evening sought an immediate vote on SB 465, the bill expanding the ability of Oregon employers to prohibit the use of medical marijuana in the workplace.  The legislation passed the Senate with broad bi-partisan support on March 13, but House Democrats voted to keep the bill in the House Elections, Ethics and Rules Committee where it'll die for the 2007 session. 

 

“Medical marijuana doesn’t belong in the workplace,” said Rep. Dennis Richardson (R-Central Point). “With just a few days left in the session, we’re no closer to resolving a very important issue to many Oregon businesses.  The issue has been the subject of endless litigation,  and now it’s time to clarify the law.”

  

SB 465 clarifies that medical marijuana laws can’t be interpreted to allow employees to possess, consume or be impaired by the drug during working hours, or to prevent employers from enforcing drug-free workforce policies.  Rep. Chuck Burley (R-Bend) said he supports the bill because the issue affects employers in his district, including the Bend Metro Park and Recreation District.

 

“The district found themselves in a position of having to hire a swim instructor they knew would be under the influence of marijuana while trying to teach children how to swim,” Rep. Burley said.  “This example underscores the need for employers to have clear guidelines that protect the safety of employees and customers.”

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