I’ve been meaning to write this letter since last month, but frankly, I just haven’t had the time because our phones have been ringing off the hook here at USA Mobile Drug Testing. For that, I’d like to thank President Obama.

You see, we run a national mobile drug testing company, and after the President’s irresponsible statement that “marijuana is not as dangerous as alcohol,” we have been deluged with phone calls both from existing clients and new prospects who want to ensure their employees don’t take that as a “free pass” to indulge in drug use.

Lately, many employers have been especially eager for us to develop a drug free workplace program to ensure their employees are sober, safe, and productive.

Now don’t get me wrong, Mr. President, I understand that your statement was simply a political stunt to win over the youth, but given your position, it was highly irresponsible and dangerous to make such a false claim.

Regardless of your personal stance on drug use, there is no denying that those under the influence of drugs or alcohol are prone to poor judgment and suffer from delayed reaction time, which often results in injuries and even death. There is no denying that substance abuse of any type has a detrimental effect on both the mind and the body. And there is also no denying that while not everyone who uses marijuana will go on to use drugs like ecstasy, heroin, or methamphetamines, nearly everyone who uses hard drugs started off with marijuana.

For those who think drug use is perfectly acceptable, especially our President, who has the most visible podium in the world, I ask

• Would you encourage your children to use drugs?
• Would you encourage your pilot to use drugs?
• Would you encourage your surgeon to use drugs?

If not, then you cannot say with any honesty that drug use is perfectly safe and free of consequences.

Given that our president has a long history of drug and alcohol abuse documented in his own autobiography, it is no surprise that he believes people should be able to consume drugs recreationally. However, we, along with most Americans believe employers should have the choice to terminate employees who abuse drugs, or simply not hire them in the first place. And we’re happy to provide them with that option.

So thank you Mr. President, for this boost in business, and for the opportunity to have a real discussion with our clients (and future clients) about the real dangers of drug abuse. We look forward to helping even more employers keep their workplace drug free, safe, and productive despite your efforts to encourage drug use.