Drug and Alcohol Prevention

Standards of Conduct:
Empire State College policy prohibits the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol by students and employees on college property or as part of the college’s activities.

Health Risks:
There are significant psychological and physiological health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and alcohol. Physical addiction, loss of control and withdrawal syndrome as well as serious damage to vital organs of the body can result from drug and alcohol abuse. Further information is available from centers or the Office of Academic Affairs.

Federal, State and Local Legal Sanctions:
Conviction of possession and sale of controlled substances carries a number and variety of penalties under New York State law. These range from fines to prison terms of 15 years to life, depending upon the nature of the substance, the criminal act and the character of the crime. Federal Trafficking Law convictions also carry a variety of penalties which range from five to 30 years in prison and substantial fines. These sanctions are described in material which are available at the centers or the Office of Academic Affairs.

Counseling Services:
The college provides no counseling, treatment or rehabilitation programs for drug users or alcohol abusers. The college makes available to students and employees information about organizations which offer counseling, treatment and rehabilitation services.

Disciplinary Sanctions – Students:
A student accused of possession/use of or distribution of controlled substances will be subject to the college’s Student Conduct Policy and Procedures (located elsewhere in this catalog). Sanctions for those found responsible may include written warning, suspensions or expulsion.