DOT Clarifies Rules about Marijuana and State Laws

On May 15, 2026, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) clarified its rules about marijuana and drug testing for safety-sensitive employees, including Flight Attendants.

Below is the guidance DOT provided in easy-to-digest language:

• Even if marijuana is legal in your state for medical or recreational use, a positive DOT drug test for marijuana is still considered a DOT test violation.
• A Medical Review Officer (MRO) cannot change a positive marijuana test to 'negative' simply because someone has:
• a medical marijuana card
• a doctor's recommendation
• paperwork from a dispensary
• proof the marijuana was legally purchased in their state.
• DOT rules only allow certain FDA-approved prescribed medications as a valid explanation for a positive drug test. Marijuana sold through state programs does not qualify.
• DOT also emphasized that marijuana use is not considered compatible with safety-sensitive jobs like Flight Attendant duties.

Need confidential help? If you find yourself putting your job at risk due to the use of THC products, please contact your AFA EAP. Confidential help and support are available. Endeavor AFA: 855-433-8232 x 5 Endeavor AFA website: www.edvafa.org