Drug-Free and Alcohol-Free Work-Place Policy

POLICY STATEMENT

In accordance with federal law, Hofstra University has adopted this Drug-Free and Alcohol-Free Workplace Policy. Hofstra University recognizes that employees have a right to a safe and secure workplace. Drug use and alcohol abuse by a significant proportion of the nation's workforce has major adverse effects on the welfare of all Americans, resulting in millions of dollars of lost productivity each year and an increased likelihood of accidents in the workplace. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance, illicit drug or alcohol is prohibited in the Hofstra University workplace and at any activities sponsored by Hofstra University.

Violations of this policy will subject an employee to disciplinary action, up to and including, termination of employment and referral for prosecution and the University may require employees to be placed in an appropriate drug assistance or rehabilitation program. In addition, employees are subject to Hofstra University's drug and alcohol policies, as published in the Guide to Pride.

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Hofstra University offers several programs to employees who need assistance to overcome drug or alcohol problems. Employees seeking help may contact the Director of Human Resources. Various options are available, depending on the needs of the individual. Please read the medical benefits booklet to determine the extent of coverage.

EMPLOYER REQUIREMENTS

Hofstra will:

1. notify any applicable federal granting agencies, as is required by federal law, within ten days of receiving notice from an employee who is convicted of a criminal drug statute,
2. take appropriate personnel action against an employee who violates this policy, up to and including termination,
3. require an employee who is convicted of a criminal drug statute to participate satisfactorily in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved for such purposes by a federal, state, or local health, law enforcement, or other appropriate agency, and
4. make a good faith effort to continue to maintain a drug-free and alcohol-free workplace.

EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS

Hofstra employees must:

1. abide by the terms of the Drug-Free and Alcohol-Free Workplace Policy, and
2. notify Hofstra of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace no later than five days after such conviction.

LEGAL SANCTIONS

In addition to sanctions imposed by the University, drug and alcohol violations may be referred to the appropriate external authorities. Under federal, state, and local laws, such as the New York State Penal Law and the Federal Controlled Substance Act, violations as specified above may result in penalties ranging from fines through imprisonment. A list of penalties for federal drug offenses can be found on the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's website at http://www.dea.gov/agency/penalties.htm .

Employees covered under this law include all employees and temporary personnel and consultants on the payroll, and does not include workers not on the payroll, such as independent contractors and subcontractors.

HEALTH RISKS

Drug users and alcohol abusers face many physical and mental health risks. The physical risks of drug use range from dangerously increased heart rate from cocaine use to nausea and vomiting from heroin or marijuana use, and may result in death. Use of alcohol may result in mood changes, impulsive actions, and impaired judgment and coordination. Excessive use of alcohol may cause heart damage, liver damage, damage o the digestive tract, cancer, brain damage, loss of sexual function, blood disorders, birth defects, and death. . Information on health risks for drugs or alcohol is available at the Hofstra University Health and Wellness Center.

Last Revised 05/09/08
HU Doc 2884