The University of Arizona Statement on Drug Free Schools and Campuses
Under Federal legislation entitled The Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, and The Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989 ("Act "), no institution of higher education shall be eligible to receive funds or any other form of financial assistance under any federal program, including participation in any federally funded or guaranteed student loan program, unless it has adopted and has implemented a program to prevent the use of illicit drugs and abuse of alcohol by students and employees. The Act requires the annual distribution of the following information to students and employees.
Policy and Prohibition
To achieve the policy and objective of providing a drug free environment for all University students and employees, the University prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of a controlled substance on its property or as part of any of its activities. Further, the University prohibits employees while on duty from consuming or being under the influence of a) alcoholic beverages while on duty or b) a controlled substance not prescribed for the employee by their health care provider. University of Arizona students and employees are subject to all applicable drug and alcohol policies including policies set forth in the University's Staff Personnel Policy Manual, University Handbook for Appointed Personnel, Arizona Board of Regents Code of Conduct, the University of Arizona Alcohol Policy and Regulations, or other applicable rules when adopted.
Sanctions
- Local, state, and federal laws make illegal use of drugs and alcohol serious crimes. Conviction can lead to imprisonment, fines and assigned community service.
- In order to assure fair and consistent treatment of all students or employees who are accused of illegal use of drugs and alcohol, the University will handle all cases which come to its attention within the guidelines of the applicable policies and procedures of the University (e.g. Student Code of Conduct and Student Disciplinary Procedures, Staff Rules of Conduct and Disciplinary Action, ABOR Code of Conduct) and where appropriate, local, state, and federal regulations.
- Sanctions will be imposed on students or employees who violate Arizona Board of Regents or University drug and/or alcohol policies. Sanctions may include suspension or expulsion for students and, for employees, disciplinary action up to and including discharge.
Health Risks
There are definite health risks associated with the use of alcohol and illegal substances. Alcohol or any other drug used in excess over time can produce illness, disability, and death. The health consequences of substance abuse may be immediate and unpredictable, such as cardiac arrest with cocaine use, or more subtle and long term, such as liver deterioration associated with the prolonged use of alcohol. In addition to health related problems, other concerns relating to substance abuse include the following:
- Regular users of alcohol and other drugs often have erratic life styles which interfere with sleep, nutrition, and exercise.
- Alcohol and substance use and abuse may lead to financial difficulties, domestic violence, deterioration of the family structure, motor vehicle accident injuries, and reduced job performance.
- Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence.
Support Systems and Resources
If you are experiencing problems with alcohol and/or other drugs, there are campus and community resources available to assist you.
For Employees
Services are available through the University of Arizona health plans to assist staff, faculty or appointed personnel who are experiencing problems with chemical dependency. Individuals can speak with their primary care physician or their health carrier's Member Services Department to access those resources. Additionally, the University's Life & Work Connections Employee Assistance Counseling/Consultation service provides free, voluntary and confidential short-term counseling when appropriate, or supervisor consultation, information and referrals to individuals requesting assistance for drug and/or alcohol problems. Employee Assistance Counseling/Consultation service also provides ongoing consultation and supervisory training each semester in conjunction with Human Resources and the Office of the General Counsel to educate about signs and symptoms of alcohol/drug problems, ways to help troubled employees, and resources available on campus and in the community. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 621-2493.
For Students
The Campus Health Service provides two programs which can provide assistance to students with substance abuse problems. First, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers confidential short-term counseling. Second, the alcohol and other drug prevention program (part of Health Promotion & Preventive Services) provides risk reduction programs for students, presentations to the campus community, and an educational class entitled SHADE which is a part of the University's Diversion Program. For more information, please call 621-6483.
All of these programs can provide students and employees with more information about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse and make referrals to other services throughout the community.
Reporting Responsibility
Employees are obligated to report any criminal drug/alcohol statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace. Appointed personnel and classified staff employees should report such information to the Vice President for Human Resources (621-1684); students and student employees should report to the Dean of Students Office (621-7060). These individuals are also available to answer any questions pertaining to the legislation or the University's compliance.
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