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Virtual Q&A Highlights DoD’s Stance on Cannabis Use for Service Members

Although more than 20 states and the District of Columbia have legalized cannabis for adult use, the Department of Defense (DoD) continues to prohibit its consumption by active‑duty personnel and civilian employees. This message was reinforced during a recent virtual discussion hosted by the Army Substance Abuse Program (ASAP) titled “Weed & Wellness in the Military.”

Panel Overview and Expertise

The session featured a multidisciplinary panel brought together by ASAP prevention specialists Ashley Bush and Jillian Farrow. Their goal was to educate service members, clarify policy, and answer direct questions about tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) products.

Army Capt. Mark Fyke – Military attorney at Fort Detrick, Maryland, providing legal insight on federal employment restrictions.
Christina B. Johnson – Founder of two cannabis‑focused companies, offering perspective on industry trends and state‑level legality.
Chief Corey Steffy – Fort Detrick Police Chief and drug recognition expert certified by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (2009).
Dr. Patricia Frye – Integrative medicine physician in Takoma Park, Maryland, and member of the U.S. Cannabis Council’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force.
Elia Charles – Social work supervisor with the Soldier Recovery Brigade (formerly Warrior Transition Brigade) in Bethesda, Maryland.
Michelle Laska – Drug test coordinator for ASAP at Fort Detrick, overseeing the Army’s testing procedures.

Key Points on THC, CBD, and DoD Policy

Panelists emphasized that DoD’s prohibition applies to any product containing THC, regardless of whether it is derived from marijuana or hemp. This includes oils, edibles, lotions, and other formulations that may also contain CBD. Because THC metabolites remain detectable in standard urine screens, even occasional use can result in a positive drug test.

Michelle Laska clarified a common point of confusion: while a federally approved medication like Marinol (synthetic THC) prescribed by a physician is permissible for federal employees, obtaining marijuana from a state‑licensed dispensary—even for medical reasons—remains unauthorized under DoD rules and the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).

Elia Charles noted that Marinol is frequently prescribed to service members transitioning out of the military who experience nausea, vomiting, or chronic pain. The medication provides therapeutic THC effects without exposing users to the plant material that triggers DoD’s testing thresholds.

Legal Outlook and Comparative Policies

Dr. Patricia Frye expressed optimism that federal legalization of cannabis is inevitable, citing ongoing efforts to secure Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for medical cannabis formulations. However, she stressed that any shift in federal law would not automatically overturn DoD’s internal policies.

Capt. Mark Fyke agreed that federal legalization is likely but cautioned that military service would probably remain an exception. He pointed to Canada’s approach, where cannabis use among armed forces is treated similarly to alcohol consumption—allowed as long as it does not impair duty performance.

Chief Corey Steffy echoed the need for proactive preparation. As a drug recognition expert, he advocated for education campaigns that help service members understand both the legal landscape and the potential impact on readiness.

Practical Guidance for Military Personnel

The panel’s consensus was clear: if your employer says “no,” do not take the risk. Elia Charles advised members to familiarize themselves with their unit’s specific substance‑use policies and to avoid any product that could jeopardize their career, security clearance, or benefits.

For additional information or to request clarification on ASAP resources, interested parties can contact the prevention specialists: