Student Rights and Responsibilities

University Policies Regarding Cannabis Use

Western Illinois University policy prohibits students, employees, and members of the general public from possessing, using, or distributing cannabis / marijuana in any form on any of the University’s campuses or facilities and during any University activities.

While Illinois law, as of January 1, 2020, may allow certain cannabis-related activities such as limited medical marijuana use and other recreational use and possession, using and possessing cannabis in any form remains a crime under federal law. As a recipient of federal funding, the University is required to continue to prohibit the use and possession of all federally-controlled substances including cannabis. Consequently, such activity will remain prohibited by University policy and the WIU Code of Student Conduct. Using or possessing medical marijuana on WIU property is prohibited even with a valid prescription.

State Law vs Federal Law - even though cannabis is legal in Illinois, it is illegal federally and subject to criminal charges
Keep it off campus - cannabis is prohibited anywhere on WIU campus
Don't come to campus impaired
Medical Marijuana is a no - marijuana is not allowed on campus even for those with a medical marijuana card.

Western Illinois University’s policies related to the use and possession of cannabis have not changed with the passing of  HB1438, Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act.

Policies and Regulations Related to Cannabis 

Code of Student Conduct  

Western Illinois University’s Code of Student Conduct will continue to prohibit the possession, use, or distribution of cannabis. 

Policy on Drug and Alcohol Abuse 

The purpose of the policy is to inform faculty, administrative staff, Civil Service employees, and students about sources of information regarding the adverse effects of drug and alcohol abuse, to advise them of the counseling and rehabilitation services that are available, and to notify them of the disciplinary actions that may be taken by the University.

Drug-Free Work Place Policy Statement 

In compliance with the requirements of the federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, it is the policy of Western Illinois University that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance by employees in the workplace is prohibited.

Counseling and Support Services

Consistent with its mission as a public institution of higher education, Western Illinois University is committed to providing education about the effects of drugs and alcohol and assistance for victims of drug and alcohol abuse.

The University Counseling Center and Alcohol and Other Drug Resource Center offers resources to students with drug and alcohol abuse problems and to students with alcoholic parents. The University Counseling Center and Alcohol and Other Drugs Resource Center are located in Memorial Hall on the first floor. 

Disciplinary Actions

Students who violate University policies concerning drugs and alcohol will be referred to the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities for disciplinary action in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct.

Faculty, administrative staff, and Civil Service employees who violate University policies concerning drugs and alcohol may be subject to disciplinary action including termination of employment.