Will Having a Medical Marijuana Card Get You Fired in West Virginia?

Living with a serious medical condition can be challenging, but thanks to West Virginia’s medical marijuana program, many patients can now find relief.

A common question comes up for those considering medical marijuana treatment: Will having a medical marijuana card put your job at risk? Understanding the law, your workplace rights, and your responsibilities as a patient can help you feel more confident about balancing your health needs and your employment.

West Virginia Employment Law & Employee Rights

West Virginia’s medical marijuana law prohibits employers from firing, threatening, refusing to hire, or otherwise discriminating against someone solely because they are a certified medical marijuana patient. This protection applies when you obtain your WV medical marijuanas card with a certified medical marijuana physician and register with the state

These protections do not mean employers must allow the use of marijuana at work or permit an employee to work while under the influence. 

Workplace Rules and On-the-Job Restrictions for Cardholders

Even with a medical marijuana card, West Virginia law prohibits using marijuana during work hours, possessing it on company property, or reporting to work under the influence, no matter what type of job you have. Employers are not required to accommodate on-the-job use, and they can still enforce their own drug-free workplace policies in addition to what the law already requires.

This means that while your patient status is protected, your ability to medicate is limited to off-duty hours and away from your workplace.

Certain safety-sensitive jobs come with additional restrictions under West Virginia law and cannot perform those tasks while under the influence of medical marijuana. Employers are required to enforce these safety standards and may implement even stricter policies to ensure a safe work environment. These limits apply regardless of patient status and are designed to protect both you and those around you.

Drug Testing and Workplace Policy

Under West Virginia’s Safer Workplace Act, employers are allowed to implement and enforce drug testing policies for new hires and current employees. This includes pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing.

Having a WV medical marijuanas card does not exempt you from these policies. If your workplace requires testing and you test positive for marijuana, your employer can take disciplinary action as long as their policy is applied consistently.

Rights and Responsibilities As a Medical Marijuana Patient

As a patient, you have the right to use medical marijuana in accordance with state law without losing your job solely because of your status. You are also protected from arrest or penalty for lawful use under state regulations.

With these rights come responsibilities. You must follow possession limits, use your medicine only in private spaces where it is permitted, and store it securely. You are also responsible for never diverting your medicine to others and for always complying with your workplace’s rules about drug use and impairment.

Final Thoughts

Having a medical marijuana card in West Virginia gives you important legal protections and peace of mind as you manage your health. While it’s important to follow workplace rules and understand drug testing policies, most patients can continue working without issues as long as they stay compliant with the law and their employer’s guidelines.

By knowing your rights, honoring your responsibilities, and communicating clearly when needed, you can confidently benefit from your treatment while maintaining your career. For many West Virginians, a medical marijuana card has been the key to both better health and a balanced work life.

Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!

Medical marijuana is legal in the state of West Virginia, and you can apply for your very own medical card today! You need your medical card to visit any dispensary in the state.

If you think you may benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you will qualify for a card. It is now easier than ever to get your card with telemedicine, right from the comfort of your own home!

Being a West Virginia medical marijuana patient allows you the freedom to establish your personalized treatment plan. We’re dedicated to helping patients every step of the way!

Feel free to give us a call at 877-303-8424, and we can answer your questions about getting a medical marijuana card in West Virginia.

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Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

West Virginia Marijuana Card’s mission is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

If you have any questions, call us at 877-303-8424, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!

Check out West Virginia Marijuana Card’s Blog to keep up to date on the latest medical marijuana news, tips, and information.