Protecting Medical Marijuana Rights for Florida’s Government Employees: A New Bill in Action
Medical cannabis patients working in Florida’s public sector may soon see new protections thanks to a recently filed bill aimed at ensuring their rights.
Representative Mitch Rosenwald (Democrat) of Broward County has introduced HB 83, a groundbreaking piece of legislation designed to protect government employees and job applicants from discrimination based on their lawful off-duty medical cannabis use. This move could mark a significant step forward in balancing workplace policies with patient rights.
👉 There are 864,816 qualified medical marijuana patients, according to the state’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use.
What Does HB 83 Aim to Achieve?
The proposed bill focuses on safeguarding the rights of medical cannabis patients employed by state, county, and local governments.
Here’s what it includes:
1. Protection Against Discrimination HB 83 prohibits public employers from:
Refusing to hire qualified medical marijuana patients.
Suspending, demoting, or terminating employees solely for off-duty medical cannabis use.
2. Accountability at Work
While the bill protects lawful off-duty use, it explicitly does not protect employees who are impaired at work.
This ensures a balance between patient rights and workplace safety.
3. Addressing Gaps in Current Law
Florida’s medical marijuana statutes currently lack clear protections for public employees, leaving many vulnerable to adverse actions even when their cannabis use is legal and prescribed.
Why This Bill Matters
This legislation acknowledges the growing number of Floridians using medical cannabis to manage chronic conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and pain. With over 800,000 active medical marijuana patients in the state, the need for workplace protections is increasingly apparent.
By addressing employment-related gaps, the bill aims to create a more equitable environment where individuals can maintain their health without fear of job loss or discrimination. David Koyle CEO OMNI Medical Services
A Continuing Fight for Patient Rights
This isn’t the first time similar legislation has been introduced. Last year, Senator Tina Polsky filed a comparable bill in the Senate. While it didn’t progress past the Health Policy committee, its reintroduction underscores the persistence of advocates working to align workplace policies with Florida’s medical cannabis laws.
Public employees should remain informed and proactive about their rights as the legislative process unfolds. If passed, HB 83 would pave the way for a safer, more inclusive workplace for medical marijuana patients.
OMNI Medical is Here to Help
At OMNI Medical, we’re committed to empowering medical cannabis patients with the information and resources they need to thrive. Whether you’re renewing your card or exploring your rights as a patient, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For questions about how this bill may apply to your situation, consult with a qualified legal professional.
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