Mandatory Drug Testing Will Dilute Legalization of Marijuana

By now I'm sure you have heard about the legalization of marihauna by promoting it as medicine. Apparently some people have bought this premise but more than likely devoted pot heads whose only interest in the drug is recreational use are winning the day.

Rgardless of the question as to marijuana's possible medical benefits, there is one area where harm from its use is clear, i.e., jobs that federally mandate drug tests. Our slowly recovering economy may create the demand for workers such as mechanics, pipe fitters  and commercial vehicle drivers. Pot heads who would otherwise be acceptable job applicants will never pass drug tests because due to its legal status they will certainly increase use of the drug.

People have to understand that if they want to work with certain machinery or motor vehicles they cannot have marijuana in their system. Marijuana has more of a lingering effect than other substances and can pose not only physical harm to a machine operator but also to his or her employability.

We can debate the degree to which marijuana is unnhealthy or harmful but the consequences of a  failed drug test are undeniable. Being limited to working the counter at a drive in may make it difficult for pot heads to afford their habit.