Several White House Staffers With Past Marijuana Use Reportedly Asked To Resign - Forbes

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Topline

The White House has either suspended or removed several staffers with a history of marijuana use—including those from states where recreational use of cannabis is legal—the Daily Beast reported on Thursday night, signaling a a possible u-turn from the Biden administration which had previously indicated that recreational use of marijuana would not automatically disqualify a staffer.

Key Facts

According to the Daily Beast, dozens of young staffers have either been suspended, asked to resign or placed in a remote work program after they disclosed they had used marijuana in the past as part of their background check process.

Some of the staffers who were forced to resign had previously been told that the administration would likely overlook some past cannabis use, the report added.

The White House reportedly never explained its marijuana policy to staffers, offering no details on what amount of past use would be excusable.

Forbes has reached out to the White House for a comment on the issue.

Key Background

Last month, NBC News reported the White House would “on a case-by-case basis” waive a requirement preventing past marijuana use allowing potential appointees in the Executive Office of the President be eligible for a “Top Secret” clearance. The report at the time had noted that the waiver would be granted to those who have used marijuana “on a limited basis” in the past and are in positions that don’t ultimately require a security clearance. While recreational use of cannabis is legal in 14 states—and the District of Columbia—it remains illegal under federal law. Its status under federal law makes it a potential disqualifying factor in obtaining security clearances.

Crucial Quote

A White House spokesperson reportedly told the Daily Beast that the Biden administration is more flexible on past marijuana use than previous administrations. “The White House’s policy will maintain the absolute highest standards for service in government that the president expects from his administration, while acknowledging the reality that state and local marijuana laws have changed significantly across the country in recent years.”