POLICY STATEMENT

This policy clarifies campus regulations related to marijuana Use.

DEFINITIONS

Use: Possession, delivery, manufacture, growth, distribution, production, cultivation, and/or consumption of marijuana in any form.

PROCEDURES

I. Prohibition of Marijuana Use on Campus

Nevada State College is sympathetic to the medical needs of our students, employees and visitors. A growing number of states, including Nevada, have enacted laws decriminalizing or legalizing marijuana Use. However, federal law prohibits the Use of marijuana on college campuses that receive federal funding. Such use could jeopardize federal funding to Nevada State College, including federal funding for student financial aid and federal student work study funding. Therefore, marijuana Use, including for medical purposes, on any property owned or leased by Nevada State College or the Nevada State College Foundation, or at activity sponsored or authorized by the College or the Foundation, is expressly prohibited.

II. Disciplinary Actions for Violations

Students, employees, faculty, guests, and/or visitors who violate this policy are subject to applicable disciplinary, legal, and/or administrative action.

III. Scientific Research Involving Marijuana

As stated in Nevada System of Higher Education policy, Nevada State College employees may engage in marijuana research that is conducted in accordance with state and federal laws and regulations, provided that the following are obtained:

• prior written consent of the College President, after consultation with the institution’s general counsel; and
• legal authorization from proper federal authorities for approved research purposes.

IV. Release from Housing Contracts

NSC shall permit students who live on campus or in housing owned or operated by the College to petition for a release from their housing contract if they assert legal compliance with Nevada state law regarding medical marijuana. Students who demonstrate their compliance with state law may, in accordance with the applicable College refund policy, be released from their housing contracts and may receive a prorated refund of housing fees or rent paid. No such provision is allowed for any student who cannot document and substantiate that the use of marijuana is for a medical reason.

RELATED INFORMATION

• NSHE Handbook Title 2, Chapter 10, Section 10.2.1
• NSHE Handbook Title 4, Chapter 1, Section 34

Approvals

Approved by Vice President of Finance & Administration Kevin Butler, February 2017.