Biden Administration Against Elimination Of Cannabis Testing For Military Recruits Citing 'Readiness And Safety Concerns'

The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a statement on Tuesday addressing various proposed provisions of the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Biden Administration opposed the proposal to eliminate cannabis testing for certain military recruits.

"The Administration appreciates Congress' desire to increase the available military accessions pool," the statement reads."However, the Administration opposes Section 532, which would prevent DoD from testing applicants for Δ9-THC and Δ8-THC contained in marijuana (cannabis). The use of marijuana by Service members is a military readiness and safety concern."

The news comes about a month after the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel unveiled recommendations for the 2025 NDAA that contain a proposal to end marijuana testing for enlistment or commissioning purposes. This recommendation, an initiative previously spearheaded by Rep. Matt Gaetz (FLA-R), underscores the collaborative efforts within the GOP. At the time, Gaetz said eliminating cannabis testing could help the military meet its recruitment goals.

Some military services have already made changes to their cannabis testing policies.

In February, the U.S. Navy implemented a significant change in its boot camp policy, choosing to grant waivers to recruits who test positive for marijuana. This shift marked a departure from their previous zero-tolerance approach, reflecting the evolving legal landscape and a concerted effort to address their recruiting challenges.

In 2022, struggling to meet its recruiting goals, the Air Force undertook a temporary policy change in which it gave a second chance to some applicants who tested positive for cannabis. To earn a waiver, applicants need to score at least 50 points on the Armed Services Qualification Test, have no felony or misdemeanor convictions, possess a high school diploma and be medically qualified for service.

See Also:  Air Force And Space Force Accepting Recruits Who Have Used Marijuana

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