On November 7, 2023, Ohio voters approved Issue 2 which legalized the possession and use of limited amounts of marijuana in non-public places for individuals 21 years and older. With changes in the state law, students, faculty and staff may be wondering how the new legislation will impact the Kent State University community.
No. The use of recreational or medicinal marijuana in any form, including edibles and extracts, will remain prohibited by university policy and federal law. KSU policies will not change as a result of Issue 2.
Kent State University must comply with federal laws regarding the possession, distribution and consumption of marijuana, which is still a Schedule I drug under the federal Controlled Substance Act of 1970. In addition, KSU is obligated to follow the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act and prevent the illicit use of drugs and abuse of alcohol by students and employees on KSU property or at university events.
Yes. Kent State University policies and federal law prohibit anyone from using, possessing or distributing marijuana on KSU property or at any KSU events, including off-campus travel and events. As a recipient of federal funding, KSU is required to take measures to prevent the illicit use of drugs and abuse of alcohol on campus. Faculty, staff, students and visitors must abide by KSU’s Drug-Free Workplace policy.
Yes. Like alcohol, tobacco and other controlled substances that may be permissible under state law but are restricted by Kent State University policies, KSU will not permit the use of marijuana on university property. As a higher education institution, property owner, and recipient of federal funds, KSU has not only the authority, but the legal obligation to prohibit marijuana on campus and at university events. Students, faculty and staff who violate policies are subject to disciplinary proceedings.
No. Kent State University does not allow students, faculty, staff or visitors to possess marijuana on campus under any circumstance, regardless of medicinal status.
No. Sanctions for violating Kent State University policy’s Code of Student Conduct and the Drug-Free Workplace policy remain.
Additional information regarding Issue 2 in conjunction with the Adult Use of Cannabis Control in the Ohio Revised Code can be found at this link.