Cannabis and the January 1st Law Change
What Lewis Faculty & Staff Should Know
- When can a person buy cannabis in Illinois? Consumers over the age of 21 will be able to buy cannabis for recreational use on January 1, 2020.
- Who will be able to purchase cannabis legally?
Consumers aged 21 and older will be able to buy cannabis products from licensed sellers and dispensaries in Illinois, with or without a medical cannabis card. Purchases must be made in cash and will be taxed.
- How much can someone possess?
Legally, 30 grams and it must be sealed in an odor-proof container when transported.
- Can anyone possess cannabis on-campus?
Cannabis possession will not be allowed on-campus. Lewis University is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment and remaining in compliance with federal laws.
- Where can a person use cannabis legally?
It will be legal to use in one’s own home and on-site in some cannabis-related businesses.
Use is prohibited:
- In any public place, such as streets or parks
- In any motor vehicle, never drive under the influence of cannabis
- On school grounds, including medical cannabis
- Near someone under the age of 21
- Near an on-duty school bus driver, police officer, firefighter or corrections officer
- Will Lewis University employees be drug tested?
Lewis University is committed to compliance with the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, policy 6.2020: https://www.lewisu.edu/welcome/offices/hr/drugfreeworkplace.htm
Additionally, under Standards of Conduct and Work Rules policy 1.1030, it is against policy to report to work under the influence of alcohol or drugs or possession or use of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs on University property. Consumption of alcoholic beverages at University authorized functions, when allowed, must be done with discretion.
- What does the new law say about paraphernalia?
Enforcement with regard to paraphernalia does not change and is still prohibited on campus.
- Who can I contact or refer students to if there are questions about the new law change?
Please refer students to the full policy in the Student Handbook or any of the following:
Mike Zegadlo
LUPD Chief of Police
zegadlmi@lewisu.eduKathy Slattery
Associate Provost and Dean of Students
slatteka@lewisu.eduGraciela Dufour
Associate Vice President for Human Resources
dufourgr@lewisu.eduLori Misheck
Director of Human Resources
misheclo@lewisu.edu
Sources
- https://www.illinoispolicy.org/what-you-need-to-know-about-cannabis-legalization-in-illinois/
- https://www.ilchiefs.org/cannabis-faq
