JOINT BASE LEWIS-McChord, Wash. -- Citizen Airmen commute from all over the world to attend Unit Training Assemblies, including from states that have legalized use of recreational and medical marijuana.
The Air Force does not tolerate the illegal or improper use of drugs by Air Force personnel. Drug use is a serious breach of discipline, not compatible with service in the Air Force, automatically places the member's continued service in jeopardy, according to the Military Drug Demand Reduction Program Air Force Instruction 90-507.
While recreational and medical marijuana use is legal in Washington, hemp based products in lotions and food can also cause positives on drug testing.
“When I brief the newcomers to the unit, I remind them to be aware of products that use hemp,” said Senior Master Sgt. Carlos Feliciano, Drug Demand Reduction Program manager and Substance Abuse Prevention specialist. “If you use a lotion, your body absorbs and it gets into your system. You could be using hemp lotion and products without even knowing it, so it’s important to check labels and be aware of products you use.”
Studies have shown that products made with hemp seed and hemp seed oil may contain varying levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an active ingredient of marijuana, which is detectable under the Air Force Drug Testing Program. In order to ensure military readiness, the ingestion of products containing or products derived from hemp seed or hemp seed oil is prohibited, according to AFI 90-507.
“This problem isn’t going to go away, but it’s important to educate members so they know that using hemp products or taking prescription medications after they’re expired is going to cause them to test positive,” said Master Sgt. Sharon Vassell-High, DTP assistant manager and Substance Abuse Prevention specialist.
Feliciano also suggested that if you’re eating out or getting a massage, inquire about any products that might have hemp as an ingredient.
“Marijuana-infused alcohol is also something military members need to be mindful of when out at local restaurants,” added Feliciano.