Claims that regulating in the adult-use cannabis market in Pennsylvania will endanger workplace safety and productivity are pure fear-mongering (Editorial, “Debate on marijuana needs to be its own merits,” June 11).

First, most safety-sensitive employees — such as commercially licensed drivers — are governed by federal drug testing regulations. As a result, changes in the state-level status of cannabis cannot alter these policies.

Second, studies consistently show that employees who consume cannabis during their off-hours are no different than their peers. Their workplace performance does not differ from that of their coworkers, many of whom consume alcohol while away from the job, and they do not pose any increased safety risk.

Third, 39 states – including Pennsylvania – regulate the sale and use of cannabis for medical purposes. Many of these policies have been in place for several decades. Evaluations of the effects of these policies on workplace performance have documented several positive outcomes, including decreased absenteeism, increased labor participation by older adults, fewer workplace fatalities, and a decrease in workers’ compensation claims.

Today, marijuana is legal for adults in 24 states. No state has ever repealed their laws and public support for legalization has never been higher. That is because these policies are largely working as politicians and voters intended and they are preferable to criminal prohibition.

PAUL ARMENTANO

Deputy director

National Organization for Reform of Marijuana Laws

Washington, D.C.

Submitted by Virtual Newsroom