Highlights:

1. 24% of all Americans used cannabis in the past year, emphasizing the need for workplace awareness and policies.
2. Legal experts and HR professionals must weigh the health benefits and risks of cannabis use to make informed decisions for their organizations.
3. On August 30, 2023, the US Department of HHS recognized the medicinal uses of cannabis and recommended its rescheduling to a Class 3 drug.

The landscape of cannabis use is undergoing a significant shift, impacting workplaces across the United States. On August 30, 2023, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recognized the medicinal uses of cannabis and recommended its rescheduling to a Class 3 drug. This pivotal decision has far-reaching implications for healthcare, employers, health plans, and insurers. As legal experts and human resources (HR) professionals, it's crucial to understand the changing dynamics and prepare strategically.

Understanding Employee Cannabis Use

One of the central themes of this transformation is the prevalence of cannabis use among employees. In a recent survey, it was revealed that 24% of all Americans used cannabis last year. This statistic underscores the importance of addressing this issue within the workplace.

Pros and Cons of Cannabis Use

Legal experts and HR professionals should be well-versed in the pros and cons of cannabis use for employees and businesses alike. While cannabis may offer health benefits, it also poses risks, including potential impacts on employee health outcomes and increased costs. A thorough understanding of these aspects is essential for making informed decisions.

Clinical Solutions for Critical Illness

The recognition of cannabis's medicinal uses highlights the need for clinical solutions, particularly for employees facing critical illnesses such as cancer. Dr. Brooke Worster, an Associate Professor of Medicine at Jefferson Health, will share insights into the role of guided cannabis care in the workplace and its benefits in cancer symptom abatement on October 19, 2023, in this webcast. This knowledge can be invaluable for HR professionals seeking to support employees with critical health needs.\

Legal Implications

Navigating the legal aspects of cannabis use in the workplace is a complex challenge. Legal expert Christopher Feudo will provide comprehensive insights into the legal landscape, including how laws impact cannabis usage, safety considerations, and how HR is adapting to cannabis laws. Understanding these legal implications is vital for mitigating risks and ensuring compliance.

Providing Responsible Guidance

Employers overwhelmingly express the desire to support employees who use cannabis for medicinal purposes. A staggering 91% are willing to provide guided cannabis support for critical illnesses. This presents an opportunity for HR professionals to play a pivotal role in removing barriers to education, fostering responsible cannabis use among the workforce, and enhancing both employee health and business outcomes.

Benefits and Risks

Legal experts and HR professionals must consider both the benefits and risks of cannabis use in the workplace. It's essential to explore how a cannabis benefit can potentially lower employee healthcare costs while ensuring that employees using cannabis for critical illness receive the support they need.

Conclusion

As the landscape of employee cannabis use evolves, legal experts and HR professionals must stay informed and proactive. The intersection of employee wellness, chronic illness, and employer responsibilities is more critical than ever. This webcast offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights, hear survivor stories illustrating the benefits of cannabis treatments, and receive expert guidance on navigating the legal complexities of cannabis usage in the workplace.
 
Error: No such template "/CustomCode/topleader/category"!