Statement on Drugs and Alcohol

Drugs

1. Standard of Conduct
   Possession, use and/or distribution of unprescribed and/or illegal controlled substances, prescribed medical drugs that were unlawfully obtained or are being unlawfully or abusively used, and related paraphernalia are strictly prohibited on any area of campus and as part of any on or off campus University activities or events.  In addition, the abusive or unlawful use of over-the-counter drugs is strictly forbidden. Any violation of this policy is also considered a violation of the Student Conduct Code.
2. University Sanctions
   Students who possess, use and/or distribute illegal drugs, prescribed medical drugs that were unlawfully obtained or are being unlawfully used, or drug paraphernalia on Hofstra University property will be subject to a minimum sanction of disciplinary warning and mandatory attendance at an educational seminar. Repeat offenders may face more severe penalties, including automatic suspension and/or removal from the residence halls. Students who distribute controlled substances or possess such substances with the intent to distribute will be subject to a minimum sanction of suspension from the University and could face expulsion from the University.  For a complete listing of possible sanctions, please refer to the "sanction section" as outlined in the Code of Community Standards.
3. Local, State and Federal Laws
   In addition to sanctions imposed by the University, drug violations may be referred to the appropriate external authorities. Under local, state and federal 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 Web site at http://www.dea.gov/agency/penalties.htm. If a student is convicted of a drug-related offense under local, state or federal law, financial aid will be revoked for a specified period of time.
4. Health Risks
   The health risks caused by drug use vary depending on the drug involved. Studies have shown that marijuana contributes to sterility in
   men, destroys brain cells and leads to diseases associated with cigarette smoking. The use of cocaine or any cocaine-based substance may cause heart failure, erratic behavior, personality changes, birth defects, loss of appetite, paranoia and mood swings. The use of drugs without a doctor’s supervision may also cause serious health difficulties. In addition, the abuse of any substance can adversely affect relationships, employment, academic and athletic performance and self-esteem.
5. Treatment
   The University provides confidential counseling services to students. Student Counseling Services is located at the Saltzman Community Services Center and can be reached at (516) 463-6793. Counseling Services personnel will provide referrals to both in- and outpatient treatment facilities in the vicinity of Hofstra.

Alcohol

1. Standard of Conduct
   Possession, distribution, use and/or consumption of alcohol by students under 21 years of age and any other unlawful possession, distribution, or use of alcohol is strictly prohibited on campus and as part of any on or off-campus University activities or events.  The operation of a motor vehicle by a driver who is legally impaired or intoxicated (reckless driving) is also prohibited. In addition, consumption of alcohol and/or possession of open containers of alcohol by any student in public areas, such as hallways, lounges, parking lots, the Mack Student Center, athletic fields and at athletic events without express authorization from the Dean of Students Office is not permitted. No alcohol is permitted at Greek rush events. When alcohol is authorized to be served at an event on campus, no person shall be sold or served alcohol who a) is or appears to be intoxicated, or b) is under the legal drinking age of 21. When alcohol is authorized to be served at an event on campus, nonalcoholic beverages and food must also be made available. Any violation of this policy is also considered a violation of the Student Conduct Code.
2. University Sanctions
   Students who violate any of the above alcohol regulations will be subject to a minimum penalty of a disciplinary warning. Subsequent offenses will result in more serious action.  For a complete listing of possible sanctions, please refer to the "sanction section" as outlined int he Code of Community Standards.
3. Local and State Laws
   In addition to sanctions imposed by the University, alcohol violations may be referred to the appropriate external authorities. Under local and state laws, such as the New York State Penal Law, Vehicle and Traffic Law, and Alcoholic Beverage Control Law, violations may result in penalties ranging from fines through suspension of a driver’s license and possible imprisonment.
4. Health Risks
   Use of alcohol may result in mood changes, impulsive actions, loss of judgment and loss of coordination. Excessive use of alcohol may cause heart damage, liver damage, damage to the digestive tract, cancer, brain damage, mental disorders, loss of sexual function, blood disorders and birth defects. Also, long-term alcohol use may affect relationships, employment, academic and athletic performance, and self-esteem. Students will be held completely responsible for any violation of University policy while under the influence of alcohol.
5. Treatment
   The University provides confidential counseling services to students. Counseling Services is located at the Saltzman Community Services Center and can be reached at (516) 463-6793. Counseling Services personnel will provide referrals to both in- and out-patient treatment facilities in the vicinity of Hofstra. The foregoing is provided in compliance with section 1213 of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended by the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 [20 U.S.C. 1145g].