Governor Dan McKee recently signed legislation that legalized marijuana possession and use for adults in Rhode Island. Naval Station Newport recently sent out a press release to set the record straight for anyone at their facilities. The Naval Station has a strict drug-free policy where the consequences associated with marijuana possession or use are very clear. Marijuana remains a federal crime that is not allowed on any federal facility. The policy also extends to employees who are advised to follow the drug-free workplace guidelines even when off duty.
Marijuana possession or use by any person on federal government property may be referred to federal prosecutors. A brief search of belongings is common upon entry to a federal property. Further rules explicitly allow for the search of a vehicle where there is reasonable suspicion of illegal activity and the eviction of individuals residing in military housing who violate the drug-free policy. This is a reminder to everyone that the federal prohibition on marijuana continues to supersede any state law that allows for marijuana use and possession.
Find the full story from the Newport Daily News here: https://www.newportri.com/story/news/local/2022/06/02/rhode-island-legal-weed-not-federal-land-naval-station-newport/7484996001/
