Rep. Bowen Introduces New Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Employer Flexibility in Hiring Practices

MADISON – Earlier today, State Rep. David Bowen (D-Milwaukee), along with State Rep. Shae Sortwell (R-Two Rivers) and State Sen. Jeff Smith (D-Eau Claire), introduced a new bipartisan bill that would increase employer flexibility in hiring practices by limiting employer liability in cases where employers choose to not test employees for the presence of THC and other cannabinoids.

“Wisconsin, like many other states, is facing a shortage of qualified workers: with a low unemployment rate and an aging population, among other factors, many of our state’s employers are unable to quickly fill positions of need with qualified workers. In other parts of the country, especially in regions where cannabis is legal, we have seen employers trend away from drug testing current and prospective employees for THC in order to expand the pool of potential employees. In Wisconsin though, employers have been uncomfortable taking this step due to the fact that cannabis is still illegal in our state and because they are concerned about liability claims over employees who test positive for THC. By removing one of those concerns, this bipartisan bill would help develop Wisconsin’s workforce and put our employers on an equal footing with others around the country,” said Rep. Bowen.

The bill, LRB-4116, would limit the liability of employers that opt to not test employees or prospective employees for the presence of THC, a synthetic cannabinoid, or a controlled substance analog of THC or a synthetic cannabinoid. The bill includes common-sense exceptions, including certain safety- and security-sensitive positions, positions that contract with the federal government, and others.

Continued Rep. Bowen, “We have to recognize that Wisconsin does not exist in a vacuum. The majority of American states have legalized the use of cannabis to some degree, including almost all of our neighbors. Should employees who choose to legally consume cannabis on vacation or on the weekend be punished on the job months later?”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

Recent Press Releases by State Rep. David Bowen

Rep. Bowen Announces Bid for 1st District Common Council

Dec 21st, 2022 by State Rep. David Bowen

Bowen offers experienced leadership to work towards necessary solutions for Milwaukee

Rep. Bowen Statement on New Type 1 Youth Facility Site Selection in Milwaukee

Aug 10th, 2022 by State Rep. David Bowen

With Site Selection, Evers Administration and DOC Take First Major Step to Finally Close Lincoln Hills

Rep. Bowen Statement on SCOTUS Decision Overturning Roe v. Wade

Jun 24th, 2022 by State Rep. David Bowen

Decision in Dobbs Goes Against the Will of the People and Will Hurt Marginalized Communities Most