Bernalillo County commissioners are set to take a key step toward easing restrictions on off-duty cannabis use by government employees. This follows the approval of a proposal last month to revise the county’s Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace Policy. The changes would no longer penalize most employees for legally consuming cannabis during their personal time, whether for medical or recreational purposes.
The proposed changes establish a three-tier system for employee classification, focusing on public safety roles and adherence to federal regulations. Tier 1 includes employees who need a commercial driver’s license or carry firearms. Tier 2 covers roles that significantly impact public health and safety. All other roles fall into Tier 3.
Employees in Tiers 1 and 2 would remain subject to stricter testing protocols, such as random and pre-employment drug tests. After a workplace incident, these employees would need to undergo testing and would be barred from performing their duties until they pass a drug and alcohol screening. Additionally, employees who voluntarily disclose substance use concerns would be temporarily reassigned from Tier 1 and Tier 2 duties.
If approved, these policy changes would balance workplace safety requirements with evolving attitudes toward legal cannabis use in New Mexic
