WHEN IS IT OKAY TO BE HIGH? A GUIDE FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFF-DUTY USE OF CANNABIS
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Authors
Deol, Pardeep S.
Subjects
cannabis
marijuana
law enforcement
first responders
off duty
police
policy
marijuana
law enforcement
first responders
off duty
police
policy
Advisors
Matei, Cristiana
Wollman, Lauren
Date of Issue
2022-03
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This thesis explores policy options for allowing off-duty law enforcement to use cannabis, considering the potential decriminalization and legalization of recreational cannabis use and the high stress levels of first responders. Utilizing Bardach and Patashnik’s eight-step method, this thesis discusses the mental and physical health problems that law enforcement officers face and then provides research on cannabis to determine whether cannabis could be a useful tool in curbing the stress of this occupation. Finally, policies on recreational use for other occupations and a sample from Canada are examined. Research shows that stress levels in the law enforcement occupation cause substantial mental and physical ailments for officers. Moreover, for those retired or outside law enforcement, cannabis has been used as treatment for some of these conditions. This thesis finds that given the potential of federal legalization, fit-for-duty policies that allow recreational, off-duty use are powerful and beneficial tools to mitigate stress-related ailments.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
National Security Affairs (CHDS)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
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Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.
Rights
Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.