LBCC: Measure 91 and Marijuana on Campus

Since the midterm elections on Nov. 4 three students have been found smoking marijuana in their cars because "it's legal." Security and administration are busy laying out the laws on campus before more students confuse the passing of Measure 91 with expected conduct on campus.

The policy remains: no use in cars, in designated smoking shelters or in vape pens. Furthermore, marijuana is prohibited in any food products on campus.

"We still absolutely ask and expect students not to come to school under the influence," said Lynne Cox, associate dean of student development. "Technically almost nothing will change at LBCC because of this law change."

The law is not in affect until July 2015, and even after that, the use of marijuana on campus will be the same as it has been for alcohol consumption: it's not welcome. The reasons vary from cognitive abilities, safety, and financial aid.

"When states decriminalize something that the feds say is illegal, they win," said Cox. "For the feds to be able to provide financial aid, we have to enforce drug-free schools."

If the college is found allowing the use of illegal drugs—according to the federal government—they could pull aid for LBCC and its students. The loss of such funds would be devastating.

Besides the battle of federal verses state law, mind-altering drugs can present challenges to certain programs on campus. Some trade tools are considered high-risk in classrooms. In courses requiring the use of equipment that could cause bodily harm, teachers expect students to be sober.

Conducting chemistry experiments, welding, using medical equipment in health occupations classes, knives in culinary arts, or car lifts in the auto tech department are all examples of hazardous situations for students if improperly executed. Having a level-lead is important.

Concerns of marijuana use stem deeper than just campus safety. Driving to or from school under the influence results in operating a vehicle while intoxicated—illegal under any circumstance. With no on-campus housing, the school can't regulate students' ability to drive.

The school, however, recognizes challenges in monitoring legal use off campus.

Staff and faculty are being advised to question suspected students about their sobriety in class. If a student is disruptive or smells of the drug, staff are asked to inquire about and assess someone's behavior before removing them from class.

"Use of intoxicants can lead to disciplinary action at a minimum," said Bruce Thompson, safety and loss prevention coordinator.

Discipline is decided on an individual basis.

First violations are preferred as a counseling session for corrective action. Some violators may be assigned a research paper or essay in hopes of educating them further. Some violators may have to attend a conduct hearing on campus.

Depending on the severity of disruption or repeated infractions, marijuana use could result in a two day exclusion from campus up to a year of suspension. Suspension from classes will affect attendance, potentially resulting in a student losing their financial aid.

As stated in the Student Rights and Responsibilities, LBCC is committed to a drug and alcohol free campus, despite any change in state law.

"We've somewhat dealt with this problem on and off for years now with medical marijuana users," said Thompson, "It's a serious issue and I know we're going to have a lot of people testing the waters."

If a student requires the use of marijuana for a medical disability, they are encouraged to contact the Center for Accessibility Resources (formally the Disability Office) for proper instructions and declaration.