Starting in February, U-Haul says it will start declining any applicants who are active nicotine users.
The nicotine-free hiring policy goes into effect in 21 states on the first day of the month.
“We are deeply invested in the well-being of our Team Members,” stated Jessica Lopez, U-Haul Chief of Staff. “Nicotine products are addictive and pose a variety of serious health risks. This policy is a responsible step in fostering a culture of wellness at U-Haul, with the goal of helping our Team Members on their health journey.”
Employees previously hired by the company are not impacted by the policy, U-Haul said.
The states included are: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.
U-Haul says people applying for jobs on those states will see statements about the nicotine-free policy and, in states where testing is allowed, the applicants must consent to nicotine screening.
The hiring change is part of a "Healthier You" program. Click here for more information.
This story was originally published by staff at WFTS.