PHOENIX, Ariz. – U-Haul International will soon be the first major company in its field to decline job applicants who are nicotine users.
The nicotine-free hiring policy will go into effect in 21 states Feb. 1. The employment of team members hired prior to that date will not be impacted by the policy.
“We are deeply invested in the well-being of our Team Members,” stated Jessica Lopez, U-Haul chief of staff. “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.”
U-Haul employs more than 30,000 across the U.S. and Canada and is among Arizona’s largest employers with 4,000-plus team members. Arizona is among the 21 states where it is lawful to decline hiring individuals who use nicotine products.
Other states where the policy will be enacted are Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.
Headquartered in Phoenix since 1967, U-Haul offers team members an array of benefits and resources to become the best versions of themselves through its “Healthier You” program. The wellness program is designed to assist team members in four areas: health, mindset, nutrition and fitness.
Program features include nicotine cessation assistance for current team members; gym and personal trainer reimbursements; registered dietitian plans; health fairs; farmers’ markets; healthy meals and vending; an online health portal; U-Haul Active Day for group fitness events; and a robust benefits package. In September, U-Haul addressed the mental health of its team members and their households by adding the “You Matter” program.
“If we take care for our team members, they will take care of our customers,” Lopez added.
Individuals seeking U-Haul jobs in the aforementioned 21 states will see statements regarding the nicotine-free hiring policy on applications and will be questioned about nicotine use. In states where testing is allowed, applicants must consent to submit to nicotine screening in the future to be considered.
