Hanscom medical marijuana policy

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Foster
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
The 66th Air Base Group commander recently issued a policy letter regarding medical marijuana on Hanscom Air Force Base.

According to his policy, marijuana, prescribed or otherwise obtained, may not be used, possessed, distributed, nor introduced on Hanscom Air Force Base, a Federal military installation.

"The policy letter was released to address Massachusetts's recent move to legalize medical marijuana and its potential impact on good order and discipline and the mission in light of the growing on-base housing community," said Capt. Sean Eaton, 66th Air Base Group legal office assistant staff judge advocate.

Capt. Eaton also clarified some finer points of the policy letter, explaining that the Uniform Code of Military Justice still prohibits marijuana use, possession, or distribution for military members.

The policy letter also outlined some of the consequences for military members and civilians who attempt to use, posses, distribute, or introduce marijuana, prescribed or otherwise on base. Civilians will risk adverse administrative action and potential termination of their employment while active duty members risk punishment under the UCMJ and possible adverse administrative actions, which may include discharge from the Air Force.

"We want to ensure that everyone living, working, or simply visiting the base is aware of the rules and governs themselves accordingly, as this policy is consistent with Federal law and DoD policy," said Eaton.

The complete policy letter can be found here.

For any questions, contact the Staff Judge Advocate at 781-225-1410.