Alaska Airlines Ordered to Rehire Mechanic Fired for Positive Cannabis Test: A Legal Battle Over State vs. Federal Laws

A federal judge in Seattle has upheld an arbitration order requiring Alaska Airlines to rehire a mechanic fired for testing positive for cannabis in 2022. The case highlights the conflict between state marijuana legalization and federal drug policies, raising crucial questions about employee rights and workplace safety in the evolving landscape of cannabis use.

Medicinal Cannabis in the Workplace: Victoria Considers New Approach

The Victorian government is reviewing its approach to medicinal cannabis use in workplaces due to concerns about the reliability and nuance of current drug testing methods. Medicinal cannabis use has increased since it was legalized in Australia in 2016, leading to complications for users in safety-sensitive industries and roadside drug testing. While drug testing aims to ensure safety, experts highlight limitations in detecting impairment and the potential for false positives, especially with oral fluid tests. The debate centers on balancing occupational health and safety with the rights of medicinal cannabis users. The AFPA acknowledges limitations in testing, emphasizing the need for more robust methods to determine impairment. The parliament is considering a more nuanced approach, treating cannabis similarly to other prescription drugs and relying on the patient-doctor relationship to assess safety.

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