Man Loses Management Job Over Medical Pot Prescription
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11 August 2010
SAN MARCOS, Calif. -- Thirty-two-year-old John Moore of San Marcos had a security clearance and a six-figure salary when suddenly it was all gone.
From nuclear subs to other naval ships, one man charged with making sure they ran at their peak was John Moore, a technician for Clarus Technologies in San Diego."I think it's safe to say my job was my life," said Moore.
Moore jumped up the corporate ladder at defense contractor Clarus Technlogies and went from entry-level to management within two years.
"It's 100 percent devastating," said Moore.Moore was let go after he disclosed to a co-worker he had a medical marijuana prescription for his depression.A random drug test soon followed, and Moore was out. According to the state supreme court, employers can fire employees for using medical marijuana. In the case of Clarus, there was a specific policy, which allows the use of drugs with a "medically acceptable" prescription.Moore said he never used the marijuana before or during work."My understanding is with a medical prescription for cannabis, I was entitled to use it," said Moore.Moore is now planning a wrongful termination lawsuit. His attorney Dan Gilleon said it will be filed by the end of the week."
Mr. Moore followed his doctor's orders," said Gilleon. "He complied with the employment agreement and now he's being tossed out because of it."Moore isn't alone. While state officials do not keep track of the numbers, one medical marijuana advocacy group has confirmed 46 firings in the state since 2009 and believes the actual number is much higher.Employers point out the "prescriptions" are legally only a recommendation but others call cannabis a necessary medicine.Moore said he believes his career is likely over."It's unfair to be punished for something that can help you," says Moore. "I feel like I've been given an opportunity to use my voice to stand up and say this is not acceptable."
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