Continuous developments in marijuana law often leave the construction industry scrambling to ensure projects comply with the latest regulations. During “On a Need to Know Basis: What Construction Lawyers Need to Know about Marijuana Law,” attorney Gary Smith co-presented to the State Bar of Arizona’s Construction Law Section, sharing his expertise to help clear the air.
Gary recommended that employers in the construction industry stay up to date on marijuana laws, namely drug testing statutes, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Arizona paid sick leave laws. He also highlighted issues construction companies should be aware of when doing projects in the cannabis industry, including permit and payment concerns.
A seasoned litigator, advisor, mediator, and arbitrator, Gary is at the forefront of cannabis law in Arizona. He is regularly called upon by legal organizations, professional associations, and the media to share his expertise on ethics, agreements, litigation, and other key issues spurred by cannabis legislation and research. Additionally, he is a founding member of the Arizona Cannabis Bar Association and serves on the Board of Directors of the Arizona Cannabis Chamber of Commerce.
In addition to cannabis law, Gary has a longstanding and robust construction law practice. He is the author of highly regarded books, manuals and articles about the industry, including two legal treatises: The Orange Book: The Regulation of Arizona Contractors, 2nd Ed.: Practice and Procedure Before the Arizona Registrar of Contractors and Office of Administrative Hearings and Practice and Procedure Before the Arizona Registrar of Contractors and Office of Administrative Hearings. Additionally, he co-authored “Construction Lien Law in Arizona, A Practice Manual.”