You may not use or possess marijuana, medical marijuana, or marijuana paraphernalia in any form anywhere on University of Massachusetts Amherst property.
No Vaporizers
No Edibles
No Smoking
Keep it off campus
Alcohol and marijuana can negatively influence academic success and personal well-being, and it is important to understand the policies and regulations concerning its use both on and off campus.
Before you consider using recreational marijuana in Massachusetts, it is important to know and understand the facts and policies about its use. Similar to alcohol and other drugs, there are federal laws; Massachusetts laws; and university policies regarding marijuana and its use.
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You are part of the UMass community
Federal laws prohibit the use, possession, and/or cultivation of marijuana at educational institutions. This applies to ALL UMass Amherst or Five College students, faculty, staff, alumni, visitors, or guests of the university.
21 U.S. Code §811
21 U.S. Code §812 -
Not in public
It is against the law to use marijuana in public. This includes public transportation, parks, schools, sidewalks, and more.
M.G.L. 94G §13 -
Under 21
You may not possess, use, purchase, obtain, cultivate, process, manufacture, deliver, or sell or otherwise transfer marijuana or marijuana accessories.
M.G.L. 94G §7 and §8
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Keep on track to graduation
Marijuana negatively affects academic performance. The academic impact of using marijuana includes lower GPA and delayed graduation. If drug testing is required, marijuana use can cause you to lose scholarships, jobs, or internships.
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Know your resources
There are many campus and off campus support resources. If you are worried about your marijuana use or a friend’s marijuana use you can make a free, confidential appointment with BASICS.
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Be responsible
Students who look out for one another make better decisions. Be a party smart host or guest.
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Take care of others
Drug overdose or alcohol poisoning is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately! The Medical Amnesty Policy prevents you and your friend from being charged with a Code of Conduct violation if you seek help in an alcohol or drug related emergency.
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Must be over 21
You may possess and use marijuana and marijuana accessories only if you are 21 or older (and not on the UMass Amherst campus). Buying or supplying marijuana or marijuana accessories to anyone under 21 is illegal.
M.G.L. 94G §7 and §8 -
Legal purchases/sales only
If you are not a Massachusetts licensed retailer, it is illegal to sell or distribute marijuana.
If you are over 21, you may only purchase marijuana or marijuana concentrates from a Massachusetts licensed retailer.
M.G.L. 94G §9
M.G.L. 94C §32c -
Small quantity only
You may not possess, use, purchase, process, or manufacture more than one ounce (28 grams) of marijuana or more than five grams of marijuana concentrate.
M.G.L. 94G §7
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Private residences only
You can use marijuana at your private residence or on private property if the landlord or property owner allows it. Check your lease!
M.G.L. 94G §13 -
Do not mail or bring out of Massachusetts
Mailing or taking any amount of marijuana from Massachusetts is strictly prohibited and subject to serious penalties.
21 U.S. Code §812
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Never drive under the influence of marijuana
It is against the law to drive under the influence of marijuana. Open containers or partially consumed packages of marijuana cannot be kept in a motor vehicle, except in the trunk or a locked glove compartment.
M.G.L. 90 §24
M.G.L. 94G §13 -
Have fun without marijuana
Find fun things to do on campus and around the area:
- UMass Events Calendar
- Campus Pulse Calendar
- Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce Events
- Fine Arts Center performance schedule
- Hampshire County sites and events
- Pioneer Valley events
- Entertainment and nightlife in Northampton
- Outdoor activities and fun
Special Considerations for Non-U.S. Citizens
Immigration law treats all marijuana-related activity as a crime. Possession, use, and/or admission of marijuana use (legal or illegal) by persons who are not U.S. Citizens (e.g. legal permanent residents, international visa holders, undocumented individuals, etc.) can result in harsh immigration consequences such as: revocation of status, deportation, denial of entry into the U.S., and inability to obtain future immigration benefits. Note: all ports of entry into the U.S., including international terminals at airports, are on federal property where immigration laws are strictly enforced.
This information is not to be construed as legal advice and is current as of August 31, 2018. Stay up to date by following any changes in the law!