Quick answer
Marijuana in Arkansas: medical-only. Arkansas voters approved a medical cannabis program in 2016, with dispensaries opening in 2019. Adult-use marijuana remains illegal. Employers may still enforce drug-free workplace policies and test employees.
Key facts
- Medical marijuana legal since 2016.
Workplace testing
Arkansas allows workplace drug testing and employers may act on positive results. A medical card does not shield an employee from testing, and state law does not require employers to accommodate off-duty use.
Arkansas does not broadly protect off-duty cannabis use in employment; employers may still enforce drug-free workplace policies and test under state law.
Detection & panels
See how long substances stay detectable in our detection chart, compare standard panels, or use the test finder. Local testing locations in Arkansas are listed on the Arkansas drug testing page.
Frequently asked questions
Is marijuana legal in Arkansas?
Arkansas status: medical-only. Arkansas voters approved a medical cannabis program in 2016, with dispensaries opening in 2019. Adult-use marijuana remains illegal. Employers may still enforce drug-free workplace policies and test employees.
Can an employer in Arkansas drug test me?
Arkansas allows workplace drug testing and employers may act on positive results. A medical card does not shield an employee from testing, and state law does not require employers to accommodate off-duty use.
Does a medical card protect me from testing in Arkansas?
Arkansas does not broadly protect off-duty cannabis use in employment; employers may still enforce drug-free workplace policies and test under state law.