On September 18, the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs advanced the DOOBIE Act (S. 4711), legislation that would prohibit federal agencies from using past marijuana use as the sole factor in determining employment suitability, qualification standards, or eligibility for security clearances and federal credentials. The bill, endorsed by FMA, was introduced by Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the committee. S. 4711 would codify guidance issued in 2021 by the Office of Personnel Management regarding a federal job applicant’s previous history with marijuana use.

“The federal government must adapt its hiring practices to reflect the evolving legal and social landscape of our nation,” said Senator Peters. “My bill takes a crucial step by aligning federal policy with existing agency guidance, ensuring that past marijuana use alone doesn’t automatically disqualify talented individuals from public service. This approach will expand our talent pool and create a fairer, more inclusive hiring process.”

The bill, which passed by a vote of 9-5, is now cleared for consideration by the full Senate, although it is unclear if floor time will be made available. S. 4711 is a companion to the bipartisan Cannabis Users Restoration of Eligibility (CURE) Act (H.R. 5040) in the House of Representatives.