New Jersey employers have finally received a roadmap from the state on marijuana in the workplace. Late last week the Cannabis Regulatory Commission issued the long-awaited guidance as a first step toward the development of permanent standards outlining how businesses should respond if a worker is impaired due to marijuana. A key recommendation says employers can, but aren’t required to, use so-called Workplace Impairment Recognition Experts, or WIREs, when determining if an employee is high at work. Ray Cantor, deputy chief government affairs officer at the NJBIA, called it a big step for workplace safety.
Separately, the commission also gave the okay for a Fort Lee medical marijuana dispensary — Ascend Wellness — to begin recreational sales, which it hopes to start soon.
Public workers plan to protest at the State House Tuesday over a proposal to raise health care costs. Health care premiums could surge more than 20% for some government workers next year. Labor unions are urging the Murphy administration to reduce or stop the increase. Treasury officials say some of the factors behind the increase include the growing cost of health care, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation. A vote on the plan to raise premiums is set for midweek.
Finally, keep an eye out for mail from the state about property tax relief. Beginning today, homeowners and renters are being mailed instructions on how to apply for the new ANCHOR property tax relief program. Homeowners with annual incomes of up to $250,000 can apply – as can renters who earn up to $150,000.
