Michigan Smokers Need Not Apply at U-Haul

If you're a smoker, don't bother applying for a job with U-Haul. The truck-rental giant announced that it will no longer hire nicotine users in 21 states, including Michigan. Current employees who smoke will be grandfathered in, which will allow them to smoke on their own time.

According to Forbes, 29 states do not allow companies to make hiring decisions based on candidates' nicotine use. However, smokers have no such protection in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.

U-Haul's Chief of Staff, Jessica Lopez, issued a statement saying the company is attempting to insulate its employees from numerous health risks.

“We are deeply invested in the well-being of our team members,” she said. “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.”

The hiring policy goes into effect on February 1.