Howard County - Department of Fire and Rescue Services - Current and Prospective Employee Medical Cannabis Use

SB 969 prohibits Howard County's Department of Fire and Rescue Services from discriminating against current or prospective employees who legally use medical cannabis under Maryland law or another state's program. It specifically bans actions like refusing to hire, firing, or denying benefits solely due to this authorized use. However, the department may restrict employees from working while impaired by cannabis or using it within 12 hours before their shift. The law takes effect October 1, 2025, directly affecting fire department staff and job applicants with medical cannabis authorization.