Marijuana Employment and Drug Testing in Oregon

Can Employers Conduct Drug Tests On Employees Or Job Applicants For Marijuana Use in Oregon?

Yes, employers in Oregon can legally conduct drug tests on employees or job applicants for marijuana use. However, employers cannot take disciplinary action solely based on a positive drug test result unless the employee is impaired while at work.

Are There Any Restrictions On The Types Of Drug Tests That Employers Can Use (Urine, Saliva, Hair) in Oregon?

In Oregon, employers are generally free to choose which drug testing method they prefer, as long as the tests are accurate and reliable. As of 2021, urine, saliva, and hair drug tests are all acceptable methods for drug testing in the state.

Do State Laws Require Employers To Have A Written Drug Testing Policy In Place in Oregon?

No, state laws do not require employers to have a written drug testing policy in place in Oregon. However, employers should consider implementing a written drug testing policy to ensure they are in compliance with federal and state laws.

Are There Specific Industries Or Job Roles That Have Different Drug Testing Rules in Oregon?

Oregon follows the same drug testing rules as mandated by federal law. However, certain industries and job roles may have more stringent drug testing policies in place. Healthcare, educational, and safety-sensitive industries often require pre-employment drug testing and may also conduct regular drug tests for all employees. Additionally, any job role that requires a professional license or certification may be subject to additional drug testing requirements.

Can Employers Take Disciplinary Action Or Terminate Employees For Failing A Marijuana Drug Test in Oregon?

Yes, employers in Oregon may take disciplinary action or terminate employees for failing a marijuana drug test. Employers in Oregon are allowed to have a drug-free workplace policy and to test employees for drugs, including marijuana. Under Oregon law, employers may take action based on employee use or possession of marijuana, regardless of whether the employee is using or possessing it for medical purposes.

Are There Protections For Medical Marijuana Users In The Workplace in Oregon?

Yes, employees in Oregon are protected from discrimination due to their status as medical marijuana users. Under Oregon law, employers cannot discriminate against an individual based on their status as a medical marijuana user or if they have an Oregon Medical Marijuana Program card. Employers must make reasonable accommodations for employees who use medical marijuana, such as allowing more frequent breaks or modified duties. Employers may still take disciplinary action against an employee who is impaired while working due to marijuana use.

Do State Laws Provide Guidance On What Constitutes Reasonable Suspicion For Drug Testing in Oregon?

Yes, state laws in Oregon provide guidance on what constitutes reasonable suspicion for drug testing. According to Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 659A.120, an employer may require an employee to submit to a drug test if the employer has reasonable suspicion that the employee is using or has used a controlled substance during work hours. The employer must have objective facts upon which to base their suspicion, such as evidence of physical or mental abnormalities, unusual behavior or speech, the smell of alcohol or drugs on the employee’s breath or clothing, or reports from other employees or supervisors concerning the employee’s suspected drug use. The employer must also take into account any information provided by the employee that may cast doubt on the suspicion.

Are There Regulations Regarding The Timing Of Drug Tests, Such As Pre-Employment, Post-Accident, Or Random Testing in Oregon?

Yes, Oregon has drug testing regulations. Pre-employment drug testing is allowed in Oregon as long as employers meet certain conditions and follow proper procedures. Post-accident drug testing is permissible, as long as it is conducted in accordance with the Oregon Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations and is limited to situations where there is reasonable cause to believe that drug use contributed to the accident. Random drug testing is also allowed, provided that it complies with the Oregon Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations.

Can Job Applicants Be Denied Employment Based On A Positive Marijuana Drug Test in Oregon?

Yes, employers in Oregon are allowed to deny employment based on a positive marijuana drug test. Employers are allowed to conduct drug testing of applicants and current employees. If an applicant tests positive for marijuana, then the employer may deny them employment. Employers are also allowed to set policies which prohibit the use of marijuana both on- and off-duty.

Do State Laws Require Employers To Make Accommodations For Employees Using Medical Marijuana in Oregon?

Yes. In Oregon, employers are required to make reasonable accommodations for employees using medical marijuana. However, employers are not required to accommodate employees whose use of medical marijuana impairs their ability to perform their job duties. It is important to note that medical marijuana remains illegal under federal law.

What Happens If An Employee Has A Valid Prescription For Medical Marijuana But Fails A Drug Test in Oregon?

In Oregon, it is legal to use medical marijuana with a valid prescription. However, if an employee fails a drug test due to marijuana use, the employer may still take disciplinary action. Employers are not required to accommodate an employee’s medical marijuana use while at work, and may still choose to terminate employment in such cases.

Is It Legal For Employers To Use Drug Testing As A Condition For Workers’ Compensation Claims in Oregon?

Drug testing as a condition for workers’ compensation claims is not legal in Oregon. Oregon has passed laws that prohibit employers from requiring an employee to take a drug test as part of the process for filing a workers’ compensation claim. Employers may, however, require an employee to submit to a drug test if there is reasonable suspicion that the employee is impaired by drugs or alcohol while on the job.

Are There Limitations On The Use Of Drug Testing For Federal Contractors Or Employees In Safety-Sensitive Positions in Oregon?

Yes, the use of drug testing for federal contractors or employees in safety-sensitive positions in Oregon is limited by various regulations. The federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 requires employers to take steps to prevent the unlawful use, possession, or distribution of controlled substances in the workplace. This includes notifying employees of the consequences if they violate the policy.

The Oregon Drug Free Workplace Act also applies to federal contractors and employees in safety-sensitive positions in Oregon. Under this law, employers must provide a policy that prohibits the use of drugs and alcohol in the workplace. Employees must be given written notice that they may be tested for drugs or alcohol if there is reasonable suspicion of impairment or wrongdoing. Furthermore, employers must keep detailed records of any testing activities and results.

The state of Oregon also has its own laws that regulate drug testing for certain occupations and industries. Employers must comply with Oregon’s requirements when administering drug tests to their employees. Finally, federal contractors operating in Oregon must abide by any specific instructions or regulations issued by the Department of Defense or other federal agencies.

Do Employers Have To Follow Specific Protocols For Conducting Drug Tests, Such As Using Certified Laboratories in Oregon?

Yes, employers in Oregon must follow specific protocols for conducting drug tests, including using laboratories certified by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 839-015-0175 and OAR 839-015-0180(5) require employers to enter into a written agreement with a laboratory certified by SAMHSA to perform urine drug testing. The laboratory must be approved by the laboratory certification program of the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), or the laboratory must be a SAMHSA certified laboratory located within Oregon. Urine specimens must be collected at a collection site that is in compliance with the standards established by the federal government. Employers must also follow certain rules regarding how and when testing is conducted, as well as how results are reported.

Are There Regulations Regarding Drug Testing For Employees In Transportation-Related Jobs in Oregon?

Yes, there are regulations regarding drug testing for employees in transportation-related jobs in Oregon. According to Oregon state law, employers must adhere to several rules when conducting drug tests for employees in the transportation industry. These rules include requiring applicants to submit to a drug test before being hired, conducting random drug tests on current employees, and requiring drug tests after any accident that results in injury or death. Additionally, employers must provide written notice to employees of the testing policy and potential consequences of a positive result.

What Are The Consequences For Employers Who Violate State-Specific Drug Testing Laws in Oregon?

The consequences for employers who violate state-specific drug testing laws in Oregon may vary depending on the type of violation and the severity of the infraction. In some circumstances, employers may face civil fines, administrative penalties, or even criminal sanctions. In addition, employers may face potential claims from employees due to violations of their rights or for wrongful termination if an employee is discharged because of a failed drug test.

Do Laws Require Employers To Provide Information About Drug Testing Policies To Employees in Oregon?

No, employers in Oregon are not required to provide information about drug testing policies to employees. However, employers may have their own drug testing policies in place and should inform employees about them. Employers may also be required to provide notice to employees about drug testing if the drug testing will be conducted as part of a pre-employment medical examination or as part of an employee health and safety program. The Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries provides additional information and resources for employers on drug testing policies and procedures.

Are There State Resources Available To Help Employers Understand And Comply With Drug Testing Laws in Oregon?

Yes, the Oregon State Department of Labor and Industries provides employers with a variety of resources to help them understand and comply with Oregon’s drug testing laws. These resources include an informational website, an employer drug testing guide, and a training program for employers. Additionally, employers in Oregon can contact the Department of Labor and Industries for assistance with any questions or concerns they may have regarding drug testing.

Can Job Applicants Or Employees Request Retesting Or Dispute The Results Of A Drug Test in Oregon?

Yes. Under Oregon law, job applicants and employees have the right to contest the results of a drug test. Employees may request a retest of the original sample, and employers must comply with reasonable requests. However, unless the employee can provide a reasonable explanation for the positive result of the drug test, employers may take adverse action against them.

How Do State Laws Accommodate The Use Of Recreational Marijuana While Balancing Workplace Safety Concerns in Oregon?

In Oregon, employers are free to implement workplace policies that prohibit the use of marijuana. Additionally, employers are free to subject employees to drug testing for marijuana or other drugs. While there is no explicit law prohibiting an employer from taking disciplinary action against an employee who tests positive for marijuana in a drug test, there is also no law that requires an employer to take such action.



While there is no law preventing an employer from taking action against an employee based on a positive drug test result for marijuana, employers must nonetheless consider Oregon’s disability discrimination laws when making decisions about employees who use marijuana for medical purposes. Specifically, employers may not discriminate against employees who have a disability and use medical marijuana outside of the workplace, so long as it does not impact the employee’s ability to perform their job duties. Employers should also be aware that while medical marijuana users may be protected from discrimination under disability discrimination laws, they are not necessarily immune from all forms of disciplinary action, including discipline related to off-duty conduct that impacts the employee’s job performance.



Overall, employers in Oregon can utilize drug testing and other workplace policies to discourage recreational marijuana use in the workplace while recognizing the rights of medical marijuana users. Employers should also continue to monitor the evolution of marijuana laws in Oregon and adjust their policies accordingly.