Medical Marijuana and Recreational Marijuana/Cannabis

Massachusetts legislation under Massachusetts Act (Chapter 369) “An Act for the Humanitarian Medical Use of Marijuana” allows for the controlled use of medical marijuana in the Commonwealth. Thus, Massachusetts citizens may legally obtain a medical marijuana “registration card” from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. However, Smith College students, staff and faculty who possess a medical marijuana “registration card “ are not permitted to possess and or use any form of marijuana on Smith college property or at college-sponsored events.

In addition, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts through 935 CMR 500.00 has legalized the sale of marijuana for recreational purposes to individuals at least 21 years old. Although Massachusetts law permits the use of medical marijuana and recreational cannabis, Federal laws outlined by the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) has classified marijuana as a schedule 1 drug which prohibits the use, possession and/or cultivation of cannabis. Therefore the use, possession, cultivation or sale of marijuana/cannabis in any form violates federal law. Smith College must comply with the Drug-Free Communities and Schools Act (DFSCA) (20 U.S.C.1011i; 34 C.F.R part 86) as well as the Drug Free Workplace Act which requires a drug-free campus environment. Institutions of higher education such as Smith College must comply with the Drug-Free Communities and Schools Act regulations or risk losing federal funding such as financial aid. Any student, staff or faculty member who violates Smith College policy prohibiting the use and/or possession of illicit drugs (including medical marijuana) on campus may be subject to disciplinary action.