Navy releases new hemp policy
Department of the Navy continues to direct Sailors and Marines not to use hemp-derived products in a message released Aug. 7.
ALNAV 057/19 references and reiterates current Department of Navy (DoN) policy (SECNAVINST 5300.28F) regarding substance abuse, and it establishes the prohibition of use, ingestion, consumption or application of cannabinoid formulations made or derived from hemp or marijuana.
In 2018, President Trump signed into law the Agriculture Improvement Act, commonly known as the “2018 Farm Bill”. This includes legislation allowing hemp cultivation and the transfer of hemp-derived products across state lines. The legislation defines hemp as a cannabis plant that contains no more than 0.3 percent of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the chemical compound in cannabis associated with psychoactive effects. With the passage of this legislation, hemp-derived products, including cannabidiol (CBD), have become widely available.
Navy policy has not been affected by the passage of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, and all products derived from hemp or marijuana are still prohibited. While currently deemed legal for civilians in some states, all hemp and CBD products are strictly prohibited for use by Sailors.
Commercially-available hemp products, including CBD, have not been inspected by the FDA and therefore have not been proven to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any illness. Some of these products do not list all ingredients, making it impossible to know definitively how much CBD, THC or other synthetic cannabinoids they may contain. Use, which is defined as oral ingestion, intravenous use, smoking/vaporization or any other method through which hemp-derived products may enter the body, could expose the user to THC. It is possible to test positive for THC on a urinalysis by using a CBD or hemp product. It can be impossible to determine where a CBD or hemp product was manufactured and what level of THC it may contain. Even trace amounts of THC can accumulate in the body and be detected in a urinalysis screening.
Sailors who test positive for THC or other controlled substances for which they have no valid prescription are subject to mandatory administrative processing and could receive an “Other Than Honorable” discharge, which can affect veteran’s benefits and employment opportunities. Additionally, the Navy reports unlawful drug users to the FBI for inclusion in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, which could impact the ability to purchase firearms or ammunition in the future. It is the responsibility of every Sailor to ensure that he or she is diligent in avoiding intentional or accidental exposure to THC and other prohibited substances.