Cannabis on Campus

What is Cannabis?

Cannabis, also known as weed, pot, or marijuana, is a plant containing hundreds of chemical substances that affect the brain and body, including THC and CBD.

THC is a psychoactive substance found in cannabis. It is responsible for the “high” and intoxicating effects you feel after using cannabis.

CBD is another common substance found in cannabis, but it is not psychoactive. CBD is being researched for its possible therapeutic properties.

Cannabis can come in many forms, including dried flower/leaves, hash oils, extracts (shatter), edibles, and topical creams. Cannabis products can be smoked, vaped, consumed or applied topically.

Legalization in Canada

On October 17th 2018, the recreational use of cannabis became legal in Canada. One year later, federal cannabis regulations allow the production and sale of edible cannabis products, cannabis extracts and cannabis topicals.

On KPU Campuses

In accordance with KPU’s Smoke Free Campuses and Properties Policy (SR3), smoking and vaping is prohibited on all KPU campuses and properties, including inside private vehicles. This now includes recreational cannabis.

In accordance with KPU’s SR1 Policy, “Students under the influence of alcohol or non-medical drugs must be refused entry to instructional settings if their condition can constitute a hazard to themselves or others”. KPU students are expected to treat recreational cannabis and cannabis products similar to alcohol and other drugs and not come to campus while impaired.

BC Laws

You must be 19 or older to buy, use or grow recreational cannabis.

Recreational cannabis and cannabis products can only be legally purchased at government-run stores, licensed private retailers, or on the online BC store.

Adults can possess 30 grams of dried cannabis, or its equivalent, in public.

Many public spaces in BC do not permit smoking and vaping cannabis, such as parks, bus stops and public buildings.