LOUISIANA — A new Louisiana law that took effect Aug. 1, 2026, increases the potential criminal penalties for possessing marijuana on or near school property, including possible jail time and fines.
Under Act 305 of the 2026 Regular Session, possession of marijuana in a designated school zone can carry a penalty of up to one year of imprisonment, with or without hard labor, and a fine of up to $1,000.
The law applies on school property, within 2,000 feet of school property and on school buses and covers public and nonpublic elementary, middle and high schools in Louisiana.
The change represents a significant increase in potential consequences for marijuana possession within those areas. According to information released by the State of Louisiana, prior to Aug. 1, possession of 14 grams or less carried a fine of up to $100. Act 305 created a new penalty specifically addressing marijuana possession within a school zone.
The law also specifically addresses smoking and vaping. A provision added under Act 305 applies to individuals who violate drug laws while smoking, vaping or otherwise using a controlled dangerous substance in covered locations. THC vape pens are included.
Another important provision is that a person does not have to know they are within the designated school zone for the law to apply. Under the statute, lack of knowledge that an offense occurred on or within 2,000 feet of school property is not a defense.
The possibility of a sentence involving hard labor also creates what state officials describe as felony-level exposure, since Louisiana defines a felony as an offense for which an individual may be sentenced to imprisonment at hard labor.
Students may face consequences through the school system in addition to any criminal proceedings. For students in grades six through 12, a first occurrence involving marijuana possession at school, on a school bus or at a school event may result in a recommendation for expulsion. A second or subsequent occurrence requires expulsion for at least two complete school semesters and referral to the district attorney, according to the state notice.
The new provisions apply statewide and are intended to strengthen restrictions on controlled substances in and around Louisiana schools.
With the law now in effect, residents should also be aware of the size of the covered area. A 2,000-foot school zone extends approximately 667 yards — more than one-third of a mile — from school property.