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As an international student studying in the U.S., it’s important to understand the law regarding CBD and marijuana use. With every state having different laws and regulations, it can be confusing to navigate. The most important thing for international students to understand is even if marijuana is legal in the state in which you’re studying, the federal government considers it a controlled substance, and federal law trumps state law.
Federal law prohibits marijuana use, and only certain CBD products are approved on the federal level. To avoid any potential problems, international students should just avoid possession and use of these items. Read on to learn more.
Marijuana and CBD are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. While they both come from the cannabis plant, they have different chemical compositions and effects on the body.
CBD is an acronym for cannabidiol, while THC is an acronym for tetrahydrocannabinol; both are naturally occurring constituents of cannabis plants.
CBD is commonly available in an oil form and is non-psychoactive, so it does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana. In contrast, THC serves as the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana, resulting in the “high” users experience.
Recreational marijuana is used for its psychoactive effects and is typically high in THC. Medical marijuana, on the other hand, is used to treat various medical conditions and is typically higher in CBD than THC. In some states, it is legal for patients with qualifying medical conditions, a doctor’s recommendation, and a medical marijuana card to use medical marijuana.
International students need to remember that marijuana use is illegal under federal law. While certain state laws allow recreational use, medicinal use, or both, don’t get fooled into thinking marijuana use is no problem. Just because medicinal and recreational use is legal, doesn’t mean state law decriminalizes marijuana.
Marijuana laws by states courtesy of disa.com
According to federal law, CBD derived from hemp plants with less than 0.3% THC is legal. However, some states restrict CBD use. So, to protect your immigration status, it’s better for international students to be safe and avoid CBD as well.
International students are advised not to use marijuana or CBD because of the potential issues with federal immigration regulations. Additionally, international students should never work within the cannabis industry.
If you find yourself being questioned about marijuana or CBD use by law enforcement or federal agents, one of the most important rights you have is the right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer. It is important to note that you have the right to access legal assistance even if you cannot afford a lawyer. Many organizations provide pro bono legal assistance to international students in the U.S. And, in some circumstances, you have the right to a court-appointed attorney to represent you.
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