The bill amends Section 26-2B-9 of the New Mexico Statutes to enhance protections for employees who use medical cannabis. It establishes that, unless required by federal law, employers cannot take adverse employment actions against applicants or employees based on their conduct related to medical cannabis as permitted under the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that while employers can still prohibit the use of medical cannabis on their premises or during work hours, they cannot control an employee's use of medical cannabis outside of work hours, provided the employee is a qualified patient. This change aims to ensure that employees are not penalized for their legal use of medical cannabis outside of their professional responsibilities, thereby expanding their rights and protections in the workplace.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 26-2B-9
PA substitute: 26-2B-9