The International Center would like to remind all international students, scholars, employees, and dependents that they are responsible for following federal immigration regulations and federal laws, in addition to the laws of the State of Michigan.
A State of Michigan law, passed as Proposal 1, legalized limited marijuana use and possession by those 21 years and older for recreational purposes as of December 6, 2018, and sales of recreational marijuana began in Michigan on December 1, 2019. Although this state law decriminalized marijuana under certain circumstances, federal law still prohibits the use or possession of marijuana. While following federal law is important for all students, scholars, employees, and dependents, if you are not a U.S. citizen, it is especially important to be aware that violations of federal law, such as marijuana use or possession, can affect your immigration status, your ability to obtain or renew a visa, your ability to enter or re-enter the United States, or your ability to apply for U.S. permanent residency or citizenship.
It is also important to remember that University of Michigan policy still prohibits the possession and use of marijuana on university premises, and in the conduct of university business away from campus. Finally, DPSS has put together a website and set of FAQs to answer some of the more common questions about this state law.