For veterans living in Jacksonville, Florida, the most important starting point is that most Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits are governed by federal law and VA policy, not local city rules. That distinction matters because marijuana remains illegal under federal law, even when a veteran is following Florida’s medical marijuana framework.
The general rule: marijuana use alone does not end VA benefits
VA public guidance and VA clinical policy are clear on a key point: veterans are not supposed to be denied VA benefits or VA health care solely because they use marijuana or participate in a state-approved marijuana program. In practice, VA clinicians can discuss marijuana use with a veteran, document it in the medical record, and adjust care plans for safety—but they cannot cut off benefits just for use.
VA health system policy specifically states that veterans “must not be denied” VA health services solely for participating in a state marijuana program or acknowledging marijuana use. At the same time, it allows providers to make individual clinical decisions based on a patient’s health, safety, and treatment needs.
Why the confusion exists: federal restrictions still create consequences
Even though use alone doesn’t automatically cancel benefits, marijuana can still create real-world benefit-related problems in a few ways:
1. Marijuana is prohibited on VA property
VA facilities are federal property. Possessing marijuana on VA medical center grounds or other VA property violates federal regulations. While this does not automatically result in loss of benefits, it can lead to legal issues or removal from the premises, which may disrupt medical care.
2. VA doctors can’t recommend or complete state program paperwork
Because marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, VA clinicians are generally prohibited from recommending marijuana, completing certification forms, or directly assisting veterans with enrollment in state medical marijuana programs. Veterans who choose to participate in Florida’s medical program typically must work with a non-VA provider for certification.
3. “Willful misconduct” can affect certain compensation decisions
The most serious benefit risks arise when marijuana use becomes part of a willful misconduct determination. VA regulations allow compensation to be denied if a disability or injury is found to be the direct result of drug abuse or reckless behavior. While occasional or past use does not automatically qualify, heavy or habitual use that directly causes harm can be considered misconduct in certain claims.
The practical takeaway for Jacksonville veterans
For most veterans in Jacksonville, marijuana use by itself is unlikely to cause a loss of VA benefits. The greater risks involve bringing marijuana onto VA property, misunderstanding the limits placed on VA providers, or situations where cannabis use directly affects safety, treatment compliance, or a compensation claim tied to misconduct. Veterans are encouraged to be honest with providers, follow federal property rules, and seek guidance when marijuana use may intersect with a VA claim or treatment plan.
Learn More: Jacksonville Marijuana Consumption Laws Explained