Staff at Massachusetts’ Hanscom Air Force Base have been reminded of the stringent rules governing the use and possession of marijuana products on the base.
A recent memorandum clearly states that individuals are prohibited from using, possessing, distributing, or bringing marijuana onto the base. However, the 66th Air Base Group Legal Office emphasizes that this restriction extends to all personnel, including federal employees, military members, dependents, contractors, and anyone attempting to enter the base. The rule also covers CBD and THC-containing products.
The policy aligns with federal law and the Defense Department (DoD) regulations, which classify cannabis as a restricted substance under the Controlled Substance Act (CSA). While CBD is a non-intoxicating compound that can be derived from hemp—a plant legally recognized federally—some CBD products contain trace amounts of THC, making them subject to the ban.
The statement explicitly includes hemp-based products in the prohibition, banning the use, possession, or distribution of any substances derived from hemp.
The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) strictly prohibits the wrongful possession and use of controlled substances. Under Article 112A, this includes a range of drugs such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, LSD, and cannabis, among others. Notably, no legal distinction is made between hemp and cannabis, despite federal law defining hemp as marijuana containing no more than 0.3% THC concentrate by dry weight.
Regardless of the legal debate over CBD, those who violate these regulations can face serious consequences under military law. Federal employees may be subject to disciplinary measures outlined in Department of the Air Force Instruction 36-148, which covers actions against civilian personnel. Additionally, federal workers, military personnel, and DoD contractors could be banned from the base or lose their security clearance.
Another factor that could jeopardize security clearance is direct financial involvement in the cannabis industry. The legal office warns that knowingly investing in businesses or stocks related to cannabis cultivation and retail could have negative repercussions.
Despite the strict restrictions, the policy does not extend to hemp-based durable goods such as clothing, which remain permissible.
The ban also applies to Fourth Cliff Annex, FamCamp, Patriot Golf Course, and Sagamore Hill.
The DoD has continuously reaffirmed its opposition to service members and related people using cannabis. Even seemingly innocuous items, such as hemp-based cereal or CBD-infused hand sanitizer, could endanger military readiness, the Air Force said in 2022.
The cannabis industry, including enterprises like Verano Holdings Corp. (Cboe CA: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNOF), looks forward to a time when federal drug laws will evolve so that even service members who need marijuana products, such as medical marijuana, can access them without risking their jobs.
About CNW420
CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.
To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)
For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com
Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer
CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com
CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN
