U-Haul Will No Longer Hire Nicotine Users In Massachusetts

BOSTON, MA — "Nicotine users" in Massachusetts and 20 other states need not apply for job openings at U-Haul. The moving company known for its orange and white rental trucks is taking advantage of laws in those states that allow it to pass on the job applications of people who smoke, vape or use chewing tobacco. Or, more accurately, a lack of laws: Massachusetts and the other 20 states don't have laws specifically barring policies like U-Haul's.

It's not the first time a Massachusetts employer has decided to not hire smokers. Massachusetts police and fire departments haven't hired smokers since 1997. In 2011, the Massachusetts Hospital Association implemented a similar policy. At the time, the American Civil Liberties Union called the ban and ones like it "lifestyle discrimination" and an "attack on the privacy rights of employees."

U-Haul said its policy, which goes into effect Feb. 1, will help it build a healthier workforce. It also said it would screen applicants for nicotine use as part of employment screening in states where such tests are allowed.

U-Haul implemented the new policy in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.