As cannabis laws evolve across the United States, many individuals wonder if having a medical marijuana card could impact their ability to join the military. Connecticut, like many other states, has a well-established medical marijuana program, allowing patients to use cannabis to manage chronic pain, PTSD, anxiety, and other medical conditions. But how does this interact with federal regulations, particularly for those who wish to enlist in the military?
If you hold a medical marijuana card in Connecticut or are considering obtaining one, it’s essential to understand the military’s stance on marijuana use and whether holding a card could affect your enlistment.
This article will provide an overview of the military’s rules, what to expect if you have a medical marijuana card, and steps you can take to manage both your medical needs and enlistment goals.
The Military’s Stance on Marijuana Use
Federal Law and Marijuana
All candidates for military service must pass a drug test during the enlistment process. The test would screen for THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the active component in marijuana. A positive THC test will lead to immediate denial of service.
However, the Air Force and Marine Corps do offer waivers for initial drug test failures. These waivers permit recruits who fail after the first failure to retest after waiting 90 days IF they do not use pot anymore.
That said, even if you’re rocking a valid card and using marijuana for medical reasons, getting popped for THC at any point during active duty or enlistment is an automatic disqualifier.
Drug Testing During Enlistment
All individuals who wish to join the U.S. military must undergo a drug test during the enlistment process. The test screens for THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the active compound in marijuana. Testing positive for THC will result in immediate disqualification from service.
However, certain branches of the military, such as the Air Force and Marine Corps, offer waivers for recruits who fail their initial drug test. These waivers allow recruits to retake the test after a 90-day waiting period, provided they discontinue all marijuana use.
Importantly, even if you are using marijuana for medical purposes with a valid card, testing positive for THC at any point during active duty or enlistment is grounds for disqualification.
Can You Enlist with a Medical Marijuana Card?
Holding a Medical Marijuana Card and Military Eligibility
This means that holding a medical marijuana card would not immediately disqualify you from enlisting in the military, as it has to be figured during background checks. Specifically, the military is focused on current drug use and not past or card possession.
The answer is no; if you quit smoking marijuana before your enlistment and do the drug test, which all military branches are required to take, then yes, you can still join.
Still, the military mandates all recruits to divulge any use of drugs prior in sum that includes medical pot. This detail will adjust the enlistment process. Although acknowledging a history of marijuana use can raise some apprehension, it does not automatically disqualify you, so long as you establish that you are no longer using and able to show verification.
What About Active Military Personnel with a Medical Marijuana Card?
Active-duty military members are strictly prohibited from using marijuana, regardless of whether they have a medical marijuana card. Using marijuana while on active duty can result in court-martial, discharge, or other disciplinary actions. Even in states where marijuana is legal, federal law takes precedence over state law when it comes to the military.
Active military personnel with conditions that might benefit from medical marijuana should seek alternative treatments. If you are in the military and struggling with chronic pain, anxiety, or PTSD, consult with a military healthcare provider to explore other options that are compatible with military regulations.
Transitioning from Medical Marijuana to Military Eligibility
Discontinuing Marijuana Use Before Enlistment
If you currently hold a medical marijuana card in Connecticut but want to enlist in the military, you will need to discontinue your marijuana use well in advance of your enlistment. THC can remain in your system for days or even weeks, depending on how frequently you use cannabis.
To ensure that you pass the military’s drug test, you should stop using marijuana and consult with your healthcare provider about alternative treatments for your condition.
Finding Alternatives to Medical Marijuana
For individuals who have been using medical marijuana to help with chronic pain or anxiety, it’s critical that such people need alternative treatments which are not in breach of military regulations.
Physical therapy prescription medications — including anti-anxiety medications or pain-relief agents Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
If you are looking for how to get off medical marijuana, then consulting a healthcare provider can help ween your way but still address the real issues.
Note: Failure to mention your medical marijuana use in the enlistment process can, of course, get you into a world of legal hurt if found out down the road, just like with any lie on paperwork guiding whether or not someone will be given deadly firearms.
Conclusion
Active marijuana use will disqualify you, even if you have a medical… The real point is instead of using marijuana right before the drug test. You have to follow all military regulations. If you are currently enrolled in the MMJ program, check with a doctor to see what other types of treatment might help you avoid being forced out.
If you are interested in obtaining a medical marijuana card to treat your condition with cannabis, it is easy and inexpensive to use telemedicine consultations that take place online. Fee: $179 New Patients; $149 Annual Renewals. But if you have any plans to sign up for the military, consider how marijuana use could affect your chances of qualifying.
FAQs
Can I join the military if I have a medical marijuana card in Connecticut?
You can join the military with a medical marijuana card, but you must not be actively using marijuana during the enlistment process or while on active duty.
Will past marijuana use disqualify me from the military?
Past marijuana use may not disqualify you, but it must be disclosed during the enlistment process. You must pass a drug test and discontinue use before joining.
How much does it cost to get a medical marijuana card in Connecticut?
The cost is $179 for new patients and $149 for yearly renewals via telemedicine consultations.
Can active-duty military personnel use medical marijuana?
No, active-duty military personnel are prohibited from using marijuana, even if they have a medical marijuana card.
What branches of the military offer waivers for marijuana use?
The Air Force and Marine Corps offer waivers for recruits who fail their initial drug test, allowing them to retake the test after 90 days.
