Utica Firefighters Sue City Over Marijuana Suspensions
Two firefighters are challenging their unpaid suspensions, arguing their medical marijuana use is protected under state law.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Substance Abuse
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Two Utica firefighters have filed lawsuits against the city following their 60-day unpaid suspensions for testing positive for marijuana. The firefighters contend they are medical cannabis patients who were not impaired while on duty.
Why it matters
The legal conflict centers on the tension between state cannabis protections and workplace substance policies within high-stakes public safety roles. This case highlights the challenges individuals may face when navigating medical marijuana use while employed in positions governed by collective bargaining agreements.
The litigation involves two firefighters suspended for 60 days after testing positive for marijuana in July 2026. Whether these state-law protections apply to public safety staff subject to strict collective bargaining terms remains a point of active legal dispute.
The players
Ryan Quinn
A Utica firefighter who has been employed by the department since 2007.
Marc Manno
A Utica firefighter who has been employed by the department since 2011.
City of Utica
The municipal authority currently defending its enforcement of collective bargaining agreements regarding substance use.
The details
The firefighters allege that their suspensions violate New York state cannabis, labor, executive, and civil rights laws. They assert that because they hold medical certifications and were not impaired on duty, the disciplinary actions were improper. In contrast, the City of Utica argues that the existing collective bargaining agreement grants the municipality authority to prohibit substance use for fire department employees.
Timeline
January 2026: Ryan Quinn sustained a shoulder injury.
July 2026: Two firefighters tested positive for marijuana.
Late July 2026: Marc Manno was suspended without pay.
August 6, 2026: Ryan Quinn was suspended without pay.
September 2026: Lawsuits were filed in the New York State Supreme Court.
Health Landscape
This dispute reflects the broader complexity of integrating state cannabis legislation into traditional workplace drug policies. It sits at the intersection of evolving state laws and the long-standing precedent of municipal labor agreements regarding safety-sensitive positions.
Employees with medical conditions should be aware that workplace policies regarding substance use can vary significantly based on the role and contract. It is worth discussing any medical cannabis treatment plan with both a physician and human resources to understand your specific professional protections.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing legal uncertainty for employees navigating medical marijuana usage under strict professional contracts. Residents managing health conditions should maintain clear communication with their physician about how any treatment might intersect with their specific workplace regulations.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving regulations surrounding cannabis use, visit our Substance Abuse section.
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Should employers be required to accommodate medical marijuana use by employees, even for safety-sensitive roles?
