A bipartisan and bicameral coalition of 10 Maine lawmakers has introduced legislation to remove certain employment barriers for individuals with past marijuana convictions.
Filed today, the bill is led by Senator Rachel Talbot Ross (D) and State Representative David Boyer (D), with co-sponsorship from both Democrats and Republicans in the Maine Senate and House of Representatives. The measure would amend state law by removing aggravated cultivating of marijuana as a disqualifying offense for employment as a direct access worker in personal care agencies.
Under current law, individuals convicted of certain drug-related crimes—including the cultivation of marijuana under aggravated circumstances—are barred from working in roles that provide direct care to vulnerable populations. If enacted, this legislation would lift that restriction, aligning employment policies with Maine’s broader marijuana reform efforts.
Supporters argue that prior convictions for marijuana-related offenses should not prevent individuals from pursuing careers in the healthcare sector, particularly given the state’s legalized marijuana industry. They also highlight the ongoing workforce shortages in personal care roles, suggesting that expanding employment opportunities could help address staffing challenges.
The bill has been referred to the Committee on Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services for further consideration.
