Personal Support

Cannabis

CNA policy on Legalized Cannabis will fall in line with current Smoke-free and Scent-free policies. Below are some answers to the most common questions people are asking about Cannabis.

What does the legalization of cannabis mean?
The legalization of cannabis means changing the law so that it will become legal for Canadians to purchase, possess, and consume cannabis.
 
Is cannabis legal now?
On October 17, 2018 it became legal in Canada to purchase, possess, and consume cannabis.
 
What is the proposed legal age that individuals can purchase and use cannabis?
In Newfoundland and Labrador the minimum age is 19. The sale of cannabis to someone under the age of 19, or to an intoxicated person, will be punishable by a fine of between $500 and $100,000 and up to two years in jail.
 
What is the legal amount of cannabis I am allowed on my person at any given time?
You can possess up to 30 grams (about an ounce) of legal dried cannabis or equivalent in non-dried form.
 
Will people be able to smoke cannabis in public?
No. Public use is restricted similar to rules restricting drinking alcohol or smoking tobacco in public.
 
Will driving while “high” or under the influence of cannabis continue to be a crime?
Yes. Even after the federal government’s Cannabis Act becomes law, it will still be a serious crime to drive while impaired from using cannabis. Currently, a conviction for impaired driving can result in a prison term of up to five to 10 years.
 
What if people consume cannabis and go to work or school while impaired?
Policies and procedures regarding the use of cannabis at CNA are currently being developed. Once finalized, this policy and related procedures will be communicated to the College community. Currently, all students are governed by a code of conduct and employees are governed by GP-GR-803 (Behavior on College Owned/Run Property), which states that “No person shall be under the influence of nor consume illicit drugs on or in property of the College of the North Atlantic”. Violations of these policies will be addressed as outlined in related procedures.
 
Will the legalization of cannabis change access to medical marijuana?
No. You will still be able to get and use medical marijuana if medically authorized. The same rules of consumption will apply to medical marijuana use in the workplace or school environment. If accommodation is required students are encouraged to contact a Counselor and/or Accessibility Coordinator. Employees with questions can contact immediate supervisor, Employee Relations, and/or OHS Department.
 
What happens if I am suspected of being impaired at work or school?
If suspected of being impaired, such that there is concern for your safety or the safety of others, you will be removed from the workplace or classroom in accordance with policy. Every effort will be made to ensure individuals suspected of being impaired will not be a danger to themselves or others.
 
What are the consequences if I am caught with more than the allowable amount of cannabis?
All students are governed by a code of conduct; all employees are governed by GP-GR-803 (Behavior on College Owned/Run Property). Any violations can result in a progressive discipline policy, which includes coaching, verbal reprimand, written reprimand, and suspension/expulsion.
 
Will cannabis be allowed in CNA residences?  CNA Residences has a set of rules to follow with consequences for breach of rules. These will be clearly outlined and communicated to all students prior to admission to residence.