Can You work at a dispensary with a misdemeanor?

Can You Work at a Dispensary with a Misdemeanor?

As the cannabis industry continues to grow and expand, many people are eager to get in on the action by securing a job at a dispensary. However, prior to applying, it’s essential to consider whether you can work at a dispensary with a misdemeanor.

Direct Answer: No, You Can’t Usually Work at a Dispensary with a Misdemeanor

Generally, a misdemeanor is considered a crime of low-level severity, but it’s still considered a criminal conviction. Employers, including dispensaries, are required to conduct background checks on employees to ensure they don’t have any felonies or serious misdemeanors on their record.

Dispensaries, operating under state regulations, aim to maintain a safe and secure environment for patients. Therefore, hiring employees with a history of criminal conduct can pose a significant risk to the public and the dispensary itself. As a result, most dispensaries exclude misdemeanor convictions from their consideration when hiring new employees.

Why Are Misdemeanors a Concern in the Cannabis Industry?

Here are some reasons why misdemeanors are a significant concern in the cannabis industry:

• Security : Dispensaries must ensure the secure handling, storage, and sale of cannabis products. Misdemeanors related to criminal activity, such as petty theft or disorderly conduct, can raise concerns about an individual’s ability to maintain the high level of security required.
• Public Trust : When a dispensary hires employees with a history of criminal conduct, it can harm public trust. Patients are already cautious about entering dispensaries due to concerns about regulation and safety; hiring staff with a questionable background can further erode trust.
• Industry Reputation : A dispensary that hires employees with a misdemeanor conviction can negatively impact their reputation within the industry and among patients.

Key Takeaways:

While it’s unlikely that dispensaries will hire someone with a misdemeanor conviction, it’s not impossible. Severity and timing of the crime can play a role in the decision-making process. Here are some possible scenarios:

• Low-level misdemeanors related to minor crimes, committed several years ago, and without any repeat offenses or evidence of rehabilitative effort may be more pardonable than those convicted of more serious felonies.
• In some cases, extenuating circumstances like first-time offenders, restitution, and rehabilitation programs might influence the employer’s decision.
• Some states have specific legislation or regulations regarding employment, which may differ from industry standards.

What You Can Do If You Have a Misdemeanor Conviction:

If you’re considering a career in the cannabis industry and have a misdemeanor conviction, here’s what you can do:

• Honesty is the best policy: Disclose your misdemeanor conviction when applying. Providing false information or attempting to hide the conviction is a major red flag for potential employers.
• Show a rehabilitative effort: Highlight your rehabilitation plan, counseling, or community service to demonstrate your growth and commitment to a drug-free lifestyle.
• Network and seek advice: Connect with professionals in the industry and ask for insider tips. Some may be willing to share their own experiences with employers and how they overcame criminal records.
• Focus on skills and certifications: As the industry becomes increasingly saturated, skilled staff with relevant certifications like cannabis security or sales training will become more attractive to employers.

Conclusion

In summary, it’s not uncommon for dispensaries to consider an individual’s criminal background, including misdemeanor convictions. While it’s not an absolute deal-breaker, hiring staff with a history of criminal conduct can pose serious risks to the dispensary and the industry as a whole.

Take note that specific regulations regarding employment vary by state. Before applying, research local laws and regulations surrounding criminal records in your region.

By being proactive, honest, and skilled, you can navigate the challenges of a criminal record and pursue a career in the cannabis industry.