1.05 Drug Free Environment

Last Revised: 15 October 2004

Refer Questions to: Executive Director, Business Support Services

Scope

This policy applies to faculty, teachers, staff, students, and guests in all offices and divisions of Gallaudet University.

Policy

In compliance with applicable laws and with the Drug Free Workplace Act and the Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities Act, Gallaudet University strictly prohibits the unlawful manufacture, possession, use, sale, or distribution of illicit drugs by anyone on the institution’s property or as part of any of its activities. Those who use illicit drugs are warned that Federal, state, and local laws provide for severe punishment for individuals who possess, transfer, manufacture, and/or sell such drugs.

The penalties for illicit drug possession, use, sale, manufacture, or distribution on campus are also severe. Students who are found guilty are subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension and dismissal. Employees are also subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment. The University reserves the right to lawfully test employees for illegal drug use in specific job classifications involving public safety.

In addition, while Gallaudet University is not a law enforcement agency, it will not shield members of the University community from the legal consequences of involvement with drugs. When there is evidence of drug violation on campus, Gallaudet administrators are obligated to and will cooperate with law enforcement and health agencies. Employees, students, and guests who are aware of or suspect illegal drug possession, use, sale, manufacture, or distribution should report such incidents to the Department of Public Safety, to appropriate student affairs official (students), or to the appropriate senior administrator or administrative officer (faculty, teachers, or staff) for action.

Gallaudet recognizes that drug abuse is a health, psychological, and social problem and should be treated as such. Within the limits of its available resources, Gallaudet University attempts to inform students and employees of the acute and chronic risks associated with illicit drugs and to aid those with drug problems. Various support services are available for individuals who are experiencing difficulty with drugs.

Procedures

1. In compliance with the Drug Free Workplace Act, if an employee is convicted of any drug statute violation resulting from an incident at the workplace, the employee must inform the Director of Equal Opportunity Programs of the conviction within five days after the action. The University must notify any Federal contracting or granting agency within 10 days of receiving notice of the conviction.
2. Within 30 days of receiving notice of an employee’s drug conviction for a drug violation at the workplace, the University takes appropriate personnel action against the convicted employee up to and including termination of employment and/or may require the employee to satisfactorily participate in a qualified drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program.

Approved by: Gallaudet University Administration