The suspension of random marijuana tests for ’20-21 was necessary for the league to be fully established before the start of the season, as training camps began earlier this week and full team practices are expected to begin over the weekend. The NBA likely realized that the players were unlikely to pass the tests and thus decided to postpone the policy until later in the season. However, the suspension is a clear indication that they’ll do so again.
This decision was made due to the COVID-19 pandemic and unusual circumstances, according to an ESPN memo obtained from the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA). Testing will continue for other performance-enhancing substances, such as cocaine and methamphetamine. However, the NBA says it will suspend random marijuana testing for ’20-21 for a season. The NBA will continue to conduct drug tests for other performance-enhancing and abuse-inducing substances, but marijuana will not be subjected to the same level of scrutiny as it would for other drugs.
A ban on cannabis use in the NBA isn’t likely to change in the short-term, but more states are legalizing recreational marijuana. It is unclear whether the league will test players for marijuana in the future, but Silver has made it clear that have a peek at this site the league will be very careful before making any changes. The league’s current collective bargaining agreement also prohibits players from being sponsored by marijuana companies. It’s unclear whether the NBA will adopt similar policies.
This move follows the legalization of marijuana in multiple states. Eight states have legalized it for adult use, including Washington, D.C., Michigan, and Oregon. Several other states have legalized marijuana for medicinal use and decriminalized feminized pot seeds it in other ways. The league is close to legalizing marijuana and erasing prior convictions. However, the punishments are more severe. Some players will be suspended from playing for up to five games if they test positive for marijuana.
Despite the fact that this suspension is a big step for the league, players can still expect to face the same consequences that the league did last year. Positive tests will incur a $25,000 fine and a five-game suspension. However, it will be a long time until players are forced to pee in a cup this season. And with that, the league hopes that players continue to be disciplined responsibly.
Despite the positive impact marijuana has had on the players, the policy will remain in place for at least the 2020-’21 season. It’s important to note that the policy is the same as what was implemented in Orlando last year. It restricts the number of close-contact situations, which reduces stress levels. The league also agreed to test players for recreational drugs as well as performance-enhancing drugs.