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What does the legalization of marijuana in Virginia mean for the workplace?


FILE - This June 5, 2017, file photo shows a marijuana leaf in the vegetative room at a cannabis cultivator in Fairbanks, Alaska. Some states that have legalized marijuana are considering providing so-called sanctuary status for licensed marijuana businesses, hoping to protect them from a shift in federal enforcement policy. Alaska, California and Massachusetts lawmakers are among those mulling similar bills at the state level. (Eric Engman/Fairbanks Daily News-Miner via AP, File)
FILE - This June 5, 2017, file photo shows a marijuana leaf in the vegetative room at a cannabis cultivator in Fairbanks, Alaska. Some states that have legalized marijuana are considering providing so-called sanctuary status for licensed marijuana businesses, hoping to protect them from a shift in federal enforcement policy. Alaska, California and Massachusetts lawmakers are among those mulling similar bills at the state level. (Eric Engman/Fairbanks Daily News-Miner via AP, File)
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The legalization of marijuana in July doesn't mean companies will allow it, according to employment attorneys.

RELATED: 'This is a monumental step:' Lawmakers react to Virginia legalizing recreational marijuana

Glenn Feldmann Darby & Goodlatte Employment Attorney Paul Beers said nothing in the bill protects workers from being fired.

Beers notes this is because companies can fire you for anything, under Virginia's "at-will" laws.

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"An employer could fire an employee just for hearing that that employee had smoke pot the night before. Saying we don't want pot smokers on the premises," Beer said.

Beers encourages folks to check what their work policies are. He also notes that employers retain a great deal of power.

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