To date, 40 states have legalized medical marijuana, 24 states have legalized recreational marijuana and 70% of Americans support the further legalization of marijuana. At the same time, the federal government continues to classify marijuana as a schedule 1 drug and federal agencies such as the Department of Transportation continue to monitor and test for the presence of marijuana metabolites in thousands of workers (pilots, truckers). As a result, many employers are very confused as to what they can do to protect themselves as well as ensure a safe workplace. Employee assistance professionals have long understood the role drug abuse plays in creating havoc in an employee’s life as well as the workplace environment. With the marijuana cultural inversion currently taking place, EAP professionals are being asked by employers “what can we do?” This presentation will give you better understanding of the leviathan marijuana industry, basic clinical facts regarding marijuana impairment especially longer-term executive functioning as well as straight forward steps on helping an employer understand the law regarding use and testing programs. Additionally, there will be evidence presented on how to assess and clinically manage a marijuana using employee who does not meet DSM criteria. Objectives:

1. “How did we get here!” Identify and describe the historic roots of the current marijuana industry (25 minutes, 9:00 am – 9:25 am)
2. “It’s just like alcohol!” Identify and describe the true science behind the clinical aspects of marijuana impairment (30 minutes, 9:25 am – 9:55 am)
3. “It’s totally legal – right?” Review the current legal framework regarding employer-based testing and referral (30 minutes, 9:55 am – 10:25 am)
4. “How can I help a struggling employee?” Review the steps required for a model assessment and management program for the MJ using employee (25 minutes, 10:25 am-10:50 am)