First off I want to state that I'm mostly against drug testing. However, if it's company policy to drug test every new hire then the rules should be the same for everyone.
For background info:
I work in middle management in the health field. I've been at this job for over 3 years. I live in the US and in a state where weed is legal but it is still federally illegal. However, the headquarters of this company operates in a completely illegal state (not sure if this affects the case or not).
My issue:
This new hire (NH) has already been nothing but trouble. The only reason he got the job was because a relative of his works there and pulled some strings. This NH reports to me and I'm supposed to interview prospective candidates for this position.
I interviewed him and he's unqualified, doesn't have a degree or any relevant experience (position requires a 4 year degree), etc. The interview did not go well and I planned on not hiring him.
Fast forward and all of a sudden the relative that pulled the strings said he is hired. I never got any say or asked if the NH would be a good fit for the position. It's regular procedure that whenever I interview potential candidates, I am always asked for feedback and if they should be hired or not.
Here's the kicker:
He failed his drug test this week for weed. My understanding is that this company is strict and has a zero tolerance policy for failed drug tests. He immediately told me what happened and sounded worried. He then stated he had a medical marijuana card.
Apparently, he spoke with HR and it seems they are letting him stay. I haven't heard back the full details yet but he wasn't sent home today after his meeting with HR, so I assume he is still employed.
I am so fed up with this bullshit. All 400+ employees had to go through the trouble of this bullshit drug test and do whatever they could to pass. Now, this shitty NH fails and gets an exception?
Any anecdotal stories or experiences with a similar situation?