In June 2021, we announced that Amazon would exclude marijuana from our comprehensive pre-employment drug screening program for unregulated positions (e.g., warehouse workers) in the United States. This major policy shift comes as many employers have struggled to find workers, and more companies are making the decision to stop drug screening new hires for marijuana. Amazon is adjusting its drug-testing policy for U.S. field operations teams and will no longer screen for marijuana in many circumstances, aligning with the changing landscape of marijuana laws across the country.
Even before Maryland legalized recreational marijuana earlier this month, people who used cannabis could apply for certain jobs at Amazon without fear of being disqualified due to a positive marijuana test. Amazon is further relaxing its screening policies for marijuana, as it ramps up support for federal legislation to legalize the drug. The company recognizes the shifting public opinion and the increasing number of states that have legalized marijuana for recreational or medical use.
Amazon certainly wasn't the first major corporation to arrive at the cannabis reform party, but it sure made one of the biggest entrances. As the second-largest private employer in the United States, this policy change by Amazon has significant implications for the industry. By eliminating marijuana testing for most job candidates, Amazon aims to attract a larger pool of talented individuals who may have previously been excluded due to their marijuana use.
This move by Amazon reflects a broader trend among employers who are reevaluating their drug-testing policies, especially regarding marijuana. With the legalization of marijuana in many states, companies are recognizing the need to adapt their screening practices to align with the changing legal landscape and public opinion. As more states continue to legalize marijuana, employers are realizing that marijuana use should not be a barrier to employment, particularly in positions where the use of cannabis does not pose a safety risk.
The decision by Amazon to no longer screen most job candidates for marijuana use is a significant step toward creating a more inclusive and fair hiring process. This change acknowledges that marijuana use should be treated similarly to alcohol use, which is not typically tested for in pre-employment screenings. The focus is shifting from penalizing individuals for their cannabis use to assessing their qualifications, skills, and abilities to perform the job effectively.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — Amazon announced Tuesday that it will stop testing jobseekers for marijuana. The company said in a statement that it recognizes the changing legal and cultural landscape surrounding marijuana, and as a result, it has decided to remove marijuana testing from its pre-employment screening process. This decision aligns with Amazon's commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all job applicants.
In conclusion, Amazon's decision to drop marijuana testing for job applicants marks a significant shift in the company's drug screening policies. This policy change aligns with the changing legal landscape and public opinion regarding marijuana use. By removing this barrier to employment, Amazon aims to attract a more diverse pool of talented individuals and create a fair hiring process. This move reflects the broader trend among employers who are reevaluating their drug-testing policies and recognizing the need to adapt to the changing times.
