A proposed amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act would abolish testing military personnel for cannabis at time of enlistment or commission.
The proposed amendment, a “prohibition on cannabis testing for enlistment or commission in certain armed forces,” was introduced by Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla.
“Our military is facing a recruitment and retainment crisis unlike any other time in American history,” Gaetz said of the amendment on social media Wednesday. “I do not believe that prior use of cannabis should exclude Americans from enlisting in the armed forces.”
He added, “We should embrace them for stepping up to serve our country.”
STUDY LINKS CANNABIS ABUSE TO SCHIZOPHRENIA IN YOUNG MEN
The military has long held uniquely strict regulations on the use of marijuana by its servicemen.
Last year, President Biden pardoned thousands of Americans who faced federal marijuana possession charges — but not members of the military.