A bipartisan trio of lawmakers have introduced the Cannabis Users Restoration of Eligibility (CURE) Act. This legislation seeks to eliminate barriers associated with prior or current marijuana use for individuals seeking federal employment or security clearances. Notably, the CURE Act aims to provide a path for those previously denied such opportunities based on marijuana use dating back to 2008. This move reflects a growing acknowledgment of the divergence between state legalization of marijuana and federal employment policies.
While the bill paves the way for a more inclusive approach to hiring, it also prompts questions regarding its implementation. Key aspects, such as workplace marijuana use, drug testing policies, and handling potential impairment, remain unaddressed in the legislation. Additionally, security clearance procedures would require significant adjustments to align with the CURE Act, necessitating coordination among various federal agencies. The bill reflects a broader shift in reconciling state-level marijuana acceptance with national security concerns in the ever-evolving cannabis landscape.
Layoffs: INTEL
Intel is set to lay off over 300 employees in California, spanning a wide range of roles, as part of its ongoing cost-cutting initiatives. The layoffs will affect positions related to software development for GPUs, cloud computing, and AI computing. These measures come as Intel works to navigate a “pronounced slowdown in demand” and execute a multibillion-dollar spending reduction plan outlined by CEO Pat Gelsinger last fall. The impacted roles include critical areas such as GPU software development engineers, AI software engineers, and cloud software architects. Intel’s restructuring efforts underscore the competitive challenges and strategic adjustments faced by the semiconductor giant in a rapidly evolving industry.
Hiring: boeing
Boeing, Missouri’s largest manufacturer, is set to expand its presence in St. Louis County, unveiling a nearly $2 billion investment plan that could lead to the creation of 500 jobs. Known as Project Voyager, this aerospace program has sparked discussions with St. Louis Lambert International Airport regarding expansion possibilities. The proposal hinges on approval from the St. Louis County Council, which, if granted, would lead to tax breaks, including a 50% reduction in real and personal property taxes for a decade. This strategic move not only bolsters Boeing’s commitment to the region but also positions St. Louis County as a hub for cutting-edge aviation manufacturing and career opportunities, reflecting the area’s pride and talent.
Cleared Employer at Work: ClearanceJobs
Opportunity to Watch
MITRE has inaugurated a new drone testing range in Orange, VA, where it will conduct experiments with small unmanned aircraft systems and facilitate the development, testing, and evaluation of innovative drone, counter-drone, and autonomous technologies. Among the dignitaries present at the opening was Jeffrey Vincent, Executive Director of the Federal Aviation Administration’s UAS Integration office, who hailed the range as a catalyst for invaluable collaboration among government, industry, and academic researchers. MITRE, with a history spanning over two decades in drone technology, has forged partnerships with public safety organizations, including the New York City Police Department and Fire Department, to enhance drone capabilities for hazardous response units, such as handling chemical, biological, nuclear, or explosive threats. Additionally, MITRE’s smartphone app-controlled counter-drone defense system is used by the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy, underscoring its pivotal role in advancing the drone landscape.
