The NFL is taking another big step toward legalizing marijuana use by players

The NFL and NFL Players Association have adjusted substance abuse policies. Among other things, the threshold for a positive test has been significantly increased.

PFT has received the new guidelines negotiated by the league and the NFLPA.

The previous limit for THC concentration was 150 ng/ml. Since Friday it has been 350 ng/ml. Generally speaking, it takes a week drop below 350 ng/ml after regular use.

Fines are also reduced for positive tests. For the first offense, the previous penalty of a 50 percent game check is reduced to $15,000. For a second violation, the fine of a full game inspection is reduced to $20,000. For a third violation, a fine is reduced from two games to one. And for four or more violations, the penalty increases from three games to two.

Fines for missed tests will also be reduced.

In 2020, the NFL dramatically limited the circumstances that would result in suspensions for substance abuse policy violations. This rarely happens now, if ever.

However, the fines used to be higher. That will change from Friday. Most importantly, it takes much more THC in a player’s system to trigger a positive test.

The general ban on marijuana use has still not been abolished, but decriminalization is getting closer and closer. It is now acceptable as long as the player tests below 350 ng/ml.