Global Courant
Nearly 33 percent more recruits tested positive for marijuana in 2022 than in 2020. | Steve Helber/AP Photo
a proposed change to the National Defense Authorization Act of Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) would end cannabis testing for members of the military – both when they enlist and when they accept a commission.
If the change is included in the NDAA, HR 2670 (118), it would address a growing problem in the US military: the increasing number of recruits testing positive for marijuana use, especially in states where it is legal. Nearly 33 percent more recruits tested positive in 2022 than in 2020, according to the New York Times.
That’s not the only weed amendment. Another would allow it doctors at the VA to provide medical advice on cannabis use as a treatment for patients in states where medical marijuana is legal. That amendment was proposed by the co-chairs of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus: Reps. Brian Mast (R-fla.), Barbara Lee (D-California), Count Blumenauer (D-Ore.) and Dave Joyce (R-Ohio).
