Louise ‘Wendy’ F. Pongracz Discusses Impact of Cannabis Legislation on Healthcare Benefits

In a recent article in Benefits Magazine, Willig, Williams & Davidson partner Louise “Wendy” F. Pongracz discussed the challenges faced by employers and health plan sponsors in navigating state laws that legalize medical and recreational marijuana.

Co-authored by Pongracz and employee benefits attorney Elizabeth Engert Manzo of the firm of Lindabury, McCormick, Estabrook & Cooper, P.C , the article provides an overview of the state and federal status of marijuana and how the patchwork of state laws legalizing cannabis use impact healthcare benefits offered by employers. Manzo and Pongracz discuss the challenges of testing for THC intoxication, the implications of cannabis legislation for employment discharge and discrimination claims, and whether marijuana can be covered by employer-sponsored health plans.

Manzo and Pongracz urge employers to pay close attention to the evolving legislative landscape regarding cannabis use. They write, “Until federal law provides clarity and marijuana testing can accurately determine present intoxication, the growing patchwork of state laws that legalize medical and recreational marijuana presents challenges for employers, plan participants who may use marijuana and health plan trustees.”

Read the full article online: The Complex Marijuana Issue: Employment Considerations and Health Plan Coverage Concerns (Subscription is required.)