Cannabis / Issue 2 Frequently Asked Questions

The federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act requires Ohio University to establish and maintain policies that address unlawful possession, use, or distribution of alcohol, illicit drugs, and controlled substances. Under federal law, cannabis is still considered a controlled substance; therefore, cannabis is not permitted on Ohio University property or at University-sponsored activities under any circumstances.

Accordingly, the University continues to prohibit the possession or use of cannabis on University property and in connection with University programs and activities off campus.

All property or buildings owned, leased, operated, controlled, or managed by Ohio University, including all regional and extension campuses, regardless of their location. This includes all residence halls and university leased apartments (River Park, River Edge, and River Gate, University Courtyard, Skyview).

Ohio University receives federal funding to support programs such as federal work-study and student financial aid. Failure to abide by federal law and regulations would jeopardize these federally-funded programs.

No. University policy also prohibits guests and visitors from using, possessing, distributing, or being under the influence of cannabis while on University property or during University activities.

In addition, policy 44.113 Ohio University Smoke and Tobacco-Free Campus Policy prohibits smoking in all University buildings, including student rooms, or within 25 feet of a University building.

No. All cannabis is prohibited from University property regardless of the intended use.

No. Policies regarding possessing, growing, or smoking cannabis in the residence halls have not changed. The Student Code of Conduct prohibits residents from using, possessing, distributing, or being under the influence of cannabis while on University property, inclusive of the residence halls. In addition, removing or tampering with smoke detectors is a safety concern and a violation of state law; it is also a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. In short, cannabis remains prohibited on campus, including your assigned residence hall room.

Reports of suspected possession or use of cannabis on campus or at University-sponsored activities will be referred to the Office of Community Standards and Student Responsibility for follow up per the procedures outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.