A proposed bill from Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ) would mandate drug testing for special government employees—specifically targeting Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) appointees. This move raises serious questions about the fairness and relevance of drug testing in a time when cannabis legalization is expanding across the U.S. In this post, we explore what this means for cannabis users, civil rights, and the broader cannabis reform movement.
In an era where cannabis is becoming more accepted and legalized across the U.S., a new bill from Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill puts drug testing policies back under the microscope. The proposed legislation specifically names Elon Musk, who is working with the federal government under special employee status, and aims to require him and others in similar roles to undergo regular drug screening.
The bill comes after growing concerns about national security and responsible governance. Sherrill emphasized that people with access to sensitive information—from military plans to Social Security data—should be “clear-eyed” and pass the same drug tests as other executive branch employees. This proposal follows controversial moves by Trump-appointed officials and allegations of carelessness with classified information.
But here’s where it gets sticky.
The Cannabis Conflict
Cannabis remains federally illegal under Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. Yet, it’s legal for recreational use in 24 states and legal for medical use in 38 states. That means millions of Americans can legally use cannabis in their private lives—but could still lose their jobs or security clearances for it under federal rules. This is where drug testing policies become outdated and problematic.
Elon Musk himself has a complicated history with drug use in the public eye. He famously smoked marijuana on Joe Rogan’s podcast in 2018, which caused NASA and other federal agencies to review contracts with SpaceX. While he later claimed he didn’t inhale, it created a national debate about cannabis, productivity, and public image.
Ironically, Musk has recently voiced support for drug testing all federal employees, calling it a “great idea.” Now, with Sherrill’s bill, that statement may come full circle.
Why This Matters for Cannabis Culture
Drug testing has long been criticized by advocates as discriminatory and outdated. Studies show that THC can stay in your system for up to 30 days after use—even if you’re completely sober. This makes cannabis unique compared to alcohol or other substances that metabolize quickly. A 2022 study in JAMA Psychiatry found no link between off-duty cannabis use and poor job performance in most cases, yet drug testing still penalizes legal users disproportionately.
Furthermore, data from Pew Research shows that 88% of U.S. adults now support the legalization of marijuana for either medical or recreational use. That means public opinion has changed dramatically, but government employment rules haven’t caught up.
Sherrill’s bill may unintentionally reinforce the stigma that cannabis users can’t be trusted with responsibility, even though research and lived experience tell us otherwise.
Time for a Shift
If cannabis is rescheduled to Schedule III, as the DEA is currently reviewing, it could change the definition of “illegal drug use” in federal workplaces. This shift would mark a massive step toward ending punitive drug testing policies, especially for cannabis.
As a society, we need to move away from punishing responsible adults for legal choices they make off the clock. Instead of random drug tests, workplace policies should focus on performance, safety, and impairment—not what someone did last weekend in their free time.
In The End
The conversation around drug testing, cannabis reform, and high-profile figures like Elon Musk opens the door for deeper reflection on civil liberties, modern science, and fair treatment in the workplace. At High Science, we believe in a future where cannabis culture is no longer stigmatized—but understood, respected, and regulated with care.
It’s time to update policies to reflect the realities of legalization. We must prioritize education, push for legislative reform, and continue fighting for a system that treats cannabis responsibly—without fear or punishment.
For more on topics like these, check this link out GROWING GREEN: HOW OUTDOOR CANNABIS CULTIVATION COULD CUT EMISSIONS BY 76%
