Cannabis is a term that describes the parts and products of the plant Cannabis sativa, indica, (less often, ruderalis) and hybrid strains. In the United States, Cannabis mostly existed as marijuana ‘bud’ or ‘flower’ usually smoked. Recent advances in technology, technique, and law have created various types of concentrates that can contain up to 100% THC. These can be smoked, vaped, dabbed, or eaten. Flower itself has changed too: it is now routinely tested at 15% to 25% THC. That’s around 400% stronger than what existed in the 1960s.

Why not call it “marijuana”?

Marijuana commonly refers to the flowing bud of the female plant. Cannabis is now way more than that: “Cannabis” is meant to capture all the forms.

Some people believe that cannabis is safer than alcohol. Alcohol use can be problematic both in quantity (how much) and frequency (how often). Historically with Cannabis, binge use has not been an issue. However, recently, concentrates are changing this.

With cannabis, frequency of use is a large concern. ’Frequent Use’ (20 or more days in a month) is more common with cannabis than with alcohol. Although a larger number of people have tried alcohol, proportionally, a greater percent of current users are dependent on cannabis. Frequent use of cannabis can create a dependency that is physical (sleep and appetite get tied to use), psychological (anxiety and feeling worse without it), and social (impacting how people hangout; rituals around using).

I understand cannabis is not permitted on campus or at university-sponsored events, but what does Vermont law (18 VSA 4230 et seq.) say about cannabis possession and use elsewhere?

• As of July 1, 2018, it is legal under Vermont state law for adults over 21 years of age to possess and use small amounts of cannabis.
• It remains illegal in Vermont for individuals over the age of 21 to possess larger quantities of cannabis.
• Individuals under the age of 21 are prohibited from possessing ANY amount of cannabis.
• Consumption of cannabis in a public place or in a vehicle is prohibited, regardless of age.
• While Vermont law will allow for the operation of recreational dispensaries beginning in October 2022, sale and distribution is currently illegal.
• Cannabis remains illegal under federal law. Individuals who possess or use Cannabis, including in Vermont, remain subject to federal prosecution.

Consequences of Prohibited Cannabis Use

• Prohibited use is outlined in the UVM Alcohol, Cannabis, and Other Drug Use Policy (PDF), and could result in both UVM sanctions and civil or criminal charges.
• UVM sanctions may include fines, probation, suspension, or dismissal. A first offense includes a referral to the BASICS Program.
• Vermont law penalties for possession and cultivation range from referral to the Court Diversion Program (first offense) to fines and imprisonment (first or second offense) of up to $500,000 and 15 years.
• Vermont law penalties for dispensing cannabis or enabling a person under 21 to use cannabis may include fines of up to $2,000 and imprisonment for up to five years. The penalties are much harsher if a serious motor vehicle accident occurs.

While laws regarding cannabis have changed in Canada, the laws of border crossing have not. 

Medical cannabis is not allowed on campus, including the residence halls, or at any UVM sponsored event, whether on or off campus. No institution receiving Federal funding can allow any use of cannabis, regardless of state law. Off campus, conditions of Vermont’s medical marijuana program apply.

PLEASE NOTE: Vermont is not reciprocal. Meaning, medical cannabis cards issued in any other state are not valid in Vermont.

What about CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) derived from cannabis is considered under Federal law to be a product of marijuana. Both possession and use of CBD, and other analogs, derivatives, and products of marijuana, are prohibited on campus and at any UVM sponsored event. However, CBD derived from hemp, which is defined as CBD with a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration of not more than 0.3 percent by dry weight, is not considered a product of marijuana under federal law and is permitted on UVM’s campus.

Learn more about the Center for Health and Wellbeing's Alcohol, Cannabis, and Other Drugs (ACOD) team. Whether you're looking to develop a healthier pattern of use, want to take a break, join a recovery community, or something else, we offer a variety of programs, services, and resources-- all in an individualized, supportive, judgement-free space. 

ACOD website