Following the board meeting on September 22nd Brandon University has developed two new policies that deal with the legalization of cannabis on October 17th. The purpose of the first policy is to provide set guidelines for the permitted use and consumption of cannabis on the Brandon University campus. In accordance with Manitoba legislation the policy states that “The use or consumption of cannabis is not permitted on University property, including residence property, with the exception of medical purposes where the requirement for use is declared and appropriate accommodations for the use has been established, as per policy.”

The policy is accommodating to students who have their green cards and are using or consuming marijuana for medical purposes. If this is the case, Michelle Magnusson will be working with students to help them create a plan for how they can continue to use or consume marijuana in compliance with the new policies. Michelle can be found at Student Accessibility Services in room 106-2 A. E. McKenzie building. Lack of compliance to this new Board of Governors policy will result in disciplinary action which will vary in severity depending on the degree of the offence and if the offence is continuously repeated.

The second policy that was approved is the Harm Reduction Policy which is an Administrative policy that focuses on the health, safety and well-being of students on the Brandon University campus. Katie Gross, the Dean of Students, is promoting “responsible use” of marijuana. She believes that education about the new policies and also about marijuana itself is crucial to maintaining a safe and healthy campus environment for all students, faculty and staff. There will be an information session about responsible use on October 15th. More information about this can be found on the BU website.

Both policies are available to be viewed online on the Brandon University website or can be found in physical copy at the Office of the President, Room 116 Clark Hall.