Correction: Annual Alcohol and Other Drug Policy Notification for Students, Faculty and Staff

Last week's Annual Alcohol and Other Drug Policy Notification included incorrect information. The following is the correct annual notification.

The University of Arkansas encourages all members of the campus community to familiarize themselves with the annual Alcohol and Other Drug Policy notification.

This annual notification is required by the U.S. Department of Higher Education and provides the campus community information related to:

• Drug and Alcohol programs available to employees and/or students
• Health risks associated with alcohol abuse and illicit drug use
• Standards of conduct and disciplinary sanctions for students regarding alcohol and drug use
• Federal and state legal sanctions

Medical Marijuana

The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment of 2016 legalized medical use of marijuana under state law for individuals who have a written certification of a qualifying medical condition from a physician, and have registered with the Arkansas Department of Health. Pat Walker Health Center physicians do not prescribe or write recommendations for medical marijuana in accordance with university policy and the controlled substances act.

Marijuana remains illegal under federal law. In addition, there are limits on the use and possession of medical marijuana by qualifying patients under State law. Possession or use of marijuana is prohibited on the University of Arkansas campus or leased space (including campus housing), and at any university-sponsored events or activities. This is also consistent with the U of A's status as a "smoke-free" campus.

Students with a prescription for marijuana may not store the drug in a residence hall, have it in their possession, or use it anywhere on campus. Students won't be penalized for their status as a qualifying patient, however if under the influence on campus or during a UA sponsored activity, the student may be subject to discipline.

U of A employees are prohibited from possessing, smoking, using, or being under influence of medical marijuana while on premises, during working hours, or while operating UA vehicle/equipment. Storage of marijuana in vehicles on campus is not permitted. Employees may be required to submit to testing if there is a reasonable suspicion the employee is impaired from marijuana or other substances while on duty.

For more information about substance abuse prevention and education programs, go to health.uark.edu or email edgower@uark.edu.