Table of Contents Show
RVer or not, drug screenings are nothing new when it comes to accepting a new job. What is new is what the screening is looking for, or in this case, isn’t looking for when it comes to Amazon.
If you’re an RVer considering joining the Amazon CamperForce, it may be great to hear that they are loosening their drug screenings when it comes to marijuana.
How Has Amazon’s Drug Screening Program Changed?
Amazon previously disqualified people from working within their organization if they had tested positive for marijuana use. This disqualification is often in line with many other major employers’ policies.
However, Amazon recently began recognizing that state laws are changing throughout the United States regarding the use of Marijuana.
As of 2021, 36 states allow for the use of medical marijuana. Included in those 36 states are 15 states that have legalized the recreational use of marijuana for adults.
Amazon recently released a statement saying, “We will no longer include marijuana in our comprehensive drug screening program for any positions not regulated by the Department of Transportation, and will instead treat it the same as alcohol use. We will continue to do impairment checks on the job and will test for all drugs and alcohol after any incident.”
Amazon has not eliminated all drug screening but is suspending the testing of marijuana use.
Is Amazon Supporting Any Marijuana Based Legislation?
Amazon feels that the issue of Marijuana legislation extends beyond just their company. Because of this, the Amazon public policy team will be supporting the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act of 2021 (MORE Act). This act is federal-level legislation that legalizes marijuana, expunges criminal records, and invests in impacted communities.
Amazon takes another step further than simply supporting the MORE Act, but they encourage other employers to join them in their support. They hope to lead the charge in changing how employers view marijuana use regarding employees’ personal time.
Will This Help Change Amazon’s Bad Reputation?
Amazon is a huge company with around 798,000 employees. With that many employees, it is safe to say that opinions and experiences regarding the company vary greatly from person to person. Amazon’s reputation seems to shift as the company continues to innovate and develop their brand.
On one hand, Amazon often finds itself at the top of best employer lists from companies like Forbes and LinkedIn. In addition, many current and past employers have great things to say about the company and their experiences working there.
On the other hand, they have also found themselves being the topic of conversation regarding poor employee work environments. Many employees have felt that they are not valued and overworked. Long work hours, demanding roles, and limited breaks have left many employees not feeling appreciated.
With Amazon stepping up for employees’ rights, it is certainly a win in the advocacy column. Employees will likely feel that this will be the start of a shift in employer-employee relations as well. When large companies like Amazon begin to make changes, it often causes other companies to follow in their footsteps.
Are Other Employers Following Suit In Becoming 420 Friendly?
As state laws change, so do company drug testing policies. Some companies are still choosing to do drug testing for hiring purposes.
However, many companies are also falling in line with Amazon and not holding marijuana use against employees or potential employees. Companies are beginning to view marijuana in the same light as alcohol. As long as an employee is not under the influence of the drug while on the clock, the company is likely to turn a blind eye to the activities.
Many major retailers and even tech companies are no longer testing for marijuana. Apple speaks on the matter, “In general, we have stopped testing most candidates and have never done testing of current employees,” the company said. “We continue to do pre-employment drug testing for a limited number of positions that have a safety risk.”
Conclusion
Amazon CamperForce is a great option for RVers looking to make money on the road. It provides a unique opportunity to make an income and work for a large company.
Do you see their loosened stance on marijuana use as a step in the right direction? Would you ever consider working for Amazon?
