Light Up and Find a New Job
Later this year Scott's Miracle Grow will join the many employers attempting to discourage its employees from smoking. However, unlike most employers who focus on positive reinforcement or at the most charge smokers more for health insurance, Scott's is going a bit farther. According to this article:
"In October, the company will begin randomly testing employees and giving pink slips to those who test positive for nicotine. The company announced the ultimatum in November, saying it was giving employees a year to quit, and offered to help with smoking-cessation programs. Scott's officials say it's part of a larger effort to help their employees become healthier. "
"Our company cares deeply about our work force and has a broad vision for promoting employee wellness. That's why we built a $5 million on-site fitness facility and offer a variety of programs aimed at motivating people to eat well, exercise regularly and eliminate unhealthy habits like smoking," said Scott's spokeswoman Su Lok.
While there is no law in Ohio, where Scott's is based, that would prohibit an employer for terminating an employee because her or she smokes, just don't try this in New York.