Welcome to our article exploring the question, “Can you be fired for using Delta 8?” We’ll delve into the implications, legality, and potential consequences surrounding this controversial topic. Let’s dive in!
Can You Be Fired For Using Delta 8?
The issue of marijuana in the workplace is a continually evolving challenge for employers, as previously discussed. Implementing a zero-tolerance policy is entirely appropriate and even mandated for certain safety positions under the USDOT regulations, however, the landscape is continuously changing.
The 2018 Farm Bill legalized Hemp, despite the DEA’s hesitation to relinquish control. Hemp is now legal in states that have a system in place and is heavily regulated on a state-by-state basis. It’s important to note that hemp and marijuana, although both types of cannabis, are distinct. Marijuana is cultivated and processed for its varying psychoactive effects (Delta-9 THC), while hemp is grown and processed for its seed, fiber, and oil (like CBD sold at Walgreens) that doesn’t produce a psychoactive effect, meaning it doesn’t cause a “high.”
Cannabinoid oil contains over 100 separate compounds that are just beginning to be explored. These include the Delta-9 THC that produces the high from marijuana. However, under the 2018 Farm Bill, as long as the oil originates from legally produced hemp with a traditional Delta-9 THC content of less than .03%, it is legal. Thus, anything subsequently derived from that legal hemp oil is also legal. This leads us to the recent surge of Delta-8 THC.
Employers are understandably perplexed and have numerous questions. Delta-8 THC, though less potent than Delta-9 THC, is currently a legal substance being marketed as an alternative to traditional marijuana products. Reports indicate that Delta-8 THC does have a psychoactive effect, albeit a significantly milder one.
While employers can certainly prohibit employees from being intoxicated or high at work, and completely ban the use of federally illegal marijuana-based Delta-9 THC, it raises the question of whether they can entirely ban the use of federally legal Delta-8 THC consumed by workers off-duty.
Testing for impairment is further complicated as THC cannot be tested in real-time like alcohol. With THC, employers must rely on subjective observations and testing that can only determine if a person has used a THC product in the past month or so.
Employers are understandably concerned about potential lawsuits, grievances, low morale, and disgruntled employees when considering disciplinary actions based on subjective observations and lack of empirical evidence. Additionally, Delta-8 THC is just one of over 100 compounds, some of which will likely enter the market.
Employers need to strategically plan and consider the implications of hemp and marijuana products in the workplace. The need to hire and retain staff in non-safety roles has led some employers to adopt an approach similar to handling alcohol use. Others are taking a stricter stance. Given that over two-thirds of Americans have access to some form of legal marijuana, and almost all have access to hemp and Delta-8 products, employers cannot afford to ignore these issues.
Can you fail a drug test because of delta-8?
Delta-8 THC is a compound present in cannabis that produces effects akin to traditional (delta-9) THC. Given its similarity to delta-9 THC, it can induce a ‘high’ and is likely to be detected in a drug screening.
While Delta-8 THC is legal at the federal level, it lacks proper regulation. This means that products containing Delta-8 THC may also contain residual chemicals and other impurities. Due to these potential risks, some states have begun to enact laws against Delta-8 THC.
Does delta-8 disqualify you?
Delta-8 THC can potentially trigger a positive result on a standard drug test due to its chemical resemblance to delta-9 THC, even if you don’t consume traditional cannabis products.
Therefore, if you’re expecting to undergo a cannabis test, it’s wise to steer clear of products containing Delta-8 THC.
Why you shouldn t smoke delta-8?
Delta-8 THC, while less potent than Delta-9 THC, does have some side effects that users should be aware of. These can vary from person to person and depend on the dosage and mode of consumption.
- Psychoactive effects: Similar to other forms of THC, Delta-8 is a psychoactive compound. This means it can cause feelings of euphoria, happiness, or relaxation, but it can also lead to feelings of paranoia or anxiety, especially in high doses.
- Cognitive effects: Delta-8 THC can impact cognitive function, leading to issues with memory, attention, and coordination.
- Physical effects: Some users have reported experiencing increased heart rate, dry mouth, red eyes, and changes in appetite after consuming Delta-8 THC.
- Long-term effects: The long-term effects of Delta-8 THC are still largely unknown due to the lack of comprehensive studies on this compound.
- Interactions with other substances: Using Delta-8 THC in combination with other substances, especially alcohol or other drugs, may intensify these side effects.
It’s important to remember that while Delta-8 THC is legal in most places, its production is not regulated, which means the quality and purity of Delta-8 products can vary. Always purchase from reputable sources, and if you’re unsure about how Delta-8 THC might affect you, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider.
Is it hard to quit delta-8?
I’m sorry, but I can’t perform real-time searches or browse the internet. However, I can share that Delta-8 is a psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It’s similar to Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive component in marijuana, but it’s less potent.
When a person stops using Delta-8, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. These can include irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and changes in appetite. Some people might also experience physical symptoms like headaches. The intensity of these symptoms can vary depending on the individual’s usage habits and overall health.
Please consult with a healthcare provider for more personalized information concerning Delta-8 withdrawal symptoms.
