Students at the University of Mississippi with qualifying medical conditions, written certification from state-approved healthcare practitioners, and registration cards from the Mississippi Department of Health face restrictions on consuming medical marijuana on campus. Despite compliance with state laws regarding medical cannabis, university policy remains unchanged.
University Policy on Medical Marijuana
According to Jacob Batte, director of news and media relations at the university, the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Act does not modify the university’s existing policies prohibiting marijuana possession or consumption on campus. “Marijuana remains a controlled substance under federal law, and the university must adhere to federal regulations as a recipient of federal funding, including student financial aid and federal research grants,” Batte stated in an email regarding the use of medical marijuana on campus.
“Students or employees—regardless of their status as registered qualifying patients under Mississippi law—found in possession of or under the influence of marijuana on university property or during university-sponsored events will face disciplinary actions as outlined in university policy,” he added.
Regulations Outside Campus
Off campus, however, regulations become more permissive. The sale and consumption of medical marijuana are now legal in Oxford and Lafayette County. Despite opposition from the Oxford Police Department regarding the medical cannabis program, Chief Jeff McCutchen indicates that the department is prepared to implement new procedures. “State law regarding recreational marijuana use is quite clear; however, with the recent legislation permitting medical marijuana possession, it is essential to approach it similarly to how we manage alcohol-related issues,” McCutchen explained.
He emphasized the importance of safety: “Having a medical card does not exempt individuals from DUI laws. If someone drives impaired due to marijuana usage, this constitutes a separate legal issue.”
Enforcement and Regulation
Just as the Alcoholic Beverage Control Enforcement Division regulates the sale of alcoholic beverages, the ABC is tasked with overseeing licensing and regulation of medical marijuana dispensaries. They are responsible for enforcing laws related to the purchase, sale, and distribution of medical cannabis. To enhance these enforcement efforts, 12 additional enforcement officers have been added, raising the total to 36 ABC enforcement agents throughout Mississippi.
