Trending Topics

FDNY ceases random, scheduled and pre-employment testing for marijuana

According to Local 854, like the department’s alcohol policy, there will be testing for cause if a member is thought to be impaired on the job

FDNYmemo71322.png

By FireRescue1 staff

NEW YORK — The FDNY announced on Wednesday that it will no longer test for marijuana at random or pre-employment screening.

The Uniformed Fire Officers Association (IAFF Local 854) tweeted the news, sharing a picture of an FDNY Bureau of Operations memo distributed to all boroughs from Chief of Operations John Esposito.

The memo reads in full: “The New York City Law Department has issued guidance that prohibits adverse employment actions on off-duty marijuana usage. This will change pre-employment, random and scheduled drug testing policies for marijuana. Use of any substance while at work still remains strictly prohibited. Guidance on these changes will be disseminated in the next 14 days.”

FDNYmemo71322.png

UFOA noted that, like the fire department’s alcohol policy, there will be testing for “cause” if a member is thought to be impaired.

Trending
Veteran New Haven firefighter/paramedic Thomas “TJ” Kochera was credited with numerous lifesaving rescues and cardiac arrest saves
The lawsuit alleges negligence and recklessness after a Columbia-Richland fire engine responding to a house fire struck and killed a driver
Grand Blanc Township’s new 60,000-square-foot public safety and public works complex was opened during a ribbon-cutting ceremony
The Chelmsford firefighters’ union voted no confidence in Chief Gary Ryan, citing several issues, including the department’s response following the serious injury of firefighter Nicholas Spinale

Related content