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Controlled Substance Policy

I. Preamble
Purchase College is committed to developing and maintaining the health, stability and well-being of the collegiate learning environment. The college considers the possession, use, sale, and other distribution of illegal drugs to be detrimental to the individual student and to the education process.

A.   The use of illegal drugs is a threat to the health of the individual and also interferes with the efficient pursuit of the individual’s educational goals.

B. The presence of drugs is detrimental to the entire educational community. Their presence interferes with the educational development and creative process.

C. Possession, use, sale, or other distribution of illegal drugs violates federal, state and local laws. The college expects adherence to these laws. No special exemption from civil or criminal law exists for members of a college community.

II. The Policy
In order to protect the educational environment and safeguard the health and well-being of the individual and the community, the college policy concerning illegal drugs will be as follows:

A.  The possession, use, sale, or other distribution of narcotics, hallucinogenics or controlled substances (except as permitted by law) on the campus by any student, employee, or visitor, will be considered a serious offense.

B.  The use, sale, or possession of any drug paraphernalia, including, but not limited to, water pipes, bongs, and hypodermic syringes/needles not prescribed by a licensed physician will be subject to disciplinary action.

III. Enforcement

A.  New York State University Police officers are authorized to arrest violators of drug laws. Should conditions warrant, the college may ask assistance of other law enforcement or investigative agencies. These agencies also have the legal right to operate on the campus without consulting the college. The college cannot and will not shield violators of drug laws from law enforcement agencies.

B.  Violations of these policies will result in disciplinary or administrative action, as well as criminal prosecution whenever possible. Campus disciplinary action will be taken through administrative discipline processes for employees and through the discipline process for students. 

C.  Sanctions for specific controlled substance offenses by students are outlined in the Student Code of Conduct. More information about specific controlled substances can be reviewed in the Office of Community Standards’ website. Consequences for employees may include termination or dismissal.

D. The college provides confidential counseling, educational programs, and other services for those students seeking assistance for problems related to the use of illegal drugs.