Alcohol and Drug Appendix
Student Responsibility and Community Standards Drug & Alcohol Policies
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Policy
The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, require Saint Louis University to certify that it has adopted and implemented drug and alcohol abuse prevention programs as a condition of receiving federal funds and financial assistance. As a Catholic, Jesuit Institution dedicated to the search for truth through education, and improving the temporal and spiritual well-being of all persons, Saint Louis University has had a long-standing policy of promoting a campus environment free from drug and alcohol abuse. In accordance with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 and Saint Louis University’s Catholic, Jesuit mission, this policy restates the University’s commitment to maintaining an environment which is free of impairment and conducive to the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual development of all persons.
Scope
This policy applies to all Students taking courses for academic credit at Saint Louis University, including Students enrolled at the North Campus, South Campus, or Saint Louis University at Madrid and academic programs located overseas.
Definitions
For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions will be applied:
- The term “Illicit drugs” includes any controlled substance listed in Schedule I-V of §812 of the Federal Controlled Substance Act and those listed under Illinois, Missouri or other applicable laws.
- The term “University” refers to Saint Louis University and all of its affiliated schools, divisions, departments and related entities, campuses and controlled properties.
- The term “Campus” includes all land, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, used or controlled by the University (including adjacent streets and sidewalks).
- The term “University activities” includes academic programs affiliated with the University or in which Students have matriculated for academic credit at Saint Louis University, including study-abroad programs overseas, and any on campus or off-campus event or function conducted, approved, sponsored or funded, in whole or in part, by the University or any officially recognized Student Organization.
Standards of Conduct
Saint Louis University prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, sale, possession or use of illicit drugs or alcohol on its premises or as part of any University activity. Conduct involving prescription drugs which have not been prescribed by a physician will be treated as a violation. This policy supplements and does not limit rules of conduct pertaining to alcohol or drugs which are published in other official University publications.
Medical Marijuana: A number of states, including Missouri and Illinois, have passed laws that make the use of marijuana for some medical conditions legitimate under the law of that state. However, the possession or use of marijuana remains an offense under the Controlled Substances Act, a federal law. Saint Louis University is obligated to comply with all federal laws and regulations. In order to remain in compliance, SLU will not permit the possession or use of marijuana at educational or other activities sponsored, conducted, or authorized by SLU or its Student organizations, whether on or off campus, in any on campus housing, or in any other SLU buildings or other property.
Overseas Programs/Sanctions
Students visiting foreign countries to attend academic programs overseas are reminded that they may be subject to arrest and legal sanctions for drug and alcohol offenses under the laws and regulations of that particular country or institution in addition to the University sanctions described in the University Community Standards.
Counseling and Assistance
Saint Louis University offers confidential, professional counseling and referrals for Students needing assistance for problems relating to alcohol and drug abuse. Students may obtain information and assistance by contacting the following Counseling and Consultation Center locations:
| Location | Telephone |
|---|---|
| North Campus - Wuller Hall | (314) 977-8255 (TALK) (24-hours) |
| Madrid Campus - Manresa Hall | 011-34-91-554-5858 (extension 230) |
For assistance off campus, the following organizations provide local referrals and information on alcohol or drug abuse through nationwide hotline services:
| Organizations | Toll-Free Number |
|---|---|
| Alcohol and Drug Referral | (800) 252-6465 |
| Alcoholics Anonymous | (800) 344-2666 |
| National Council on Alcoholism | (800) 622-2255 (NCA-CALL) |
| National Institute on Drug Abuse | (800) 662-4357 (HELP) |
| Parents’ Resource Institute for Drug Information | (800) 241-9746 |
Alcohol Policy
In observance with the law of Missouri and the ordinances of the City of St. Louis, no person under the age of 21 may purchase, attempt to purchase, or have in their possession, any alcoholic or intoxicating beverage on campus or at University activities. Therefore, no alcohol beverage may be served or sold to anyone under 21 years of age on campus or at University activities. Students must present two forms of valid photo identification or comply with our reasonable age verification procedures at events held on the Campus at which alcohol is available. Students found presenting false identification or taking other steps to acquire alcohol as a minor will be subject to disciplinary action under the Community Standards, and risk criminal prosecution.
Consumption of alcoholic beverages by those who are over 21 years of age, on Campus, must be in compliance with Housing and Residence Life Guidelines while in a residence hall or University-owned/managed properties, and is permitted ONLY at those Student events or locations that have been expressly approved by the Student Involvement Center and ONLY in those locations for which the University has a license. Approval for alcohol service at events sponsored by University departments must be obtained from the appropriate Director, Dean or Vice President.
Arrangements for food and beverages for on campus events must be made with University Dining Services, which has the responsibility for verifying the legality of persons seeking to purchase or obtain alcohol. No food or beverages may be brought into an event by an outside caterer except with special authorization.
Monitoring and enforcing compliance with the policy and guidelines are the responsibility of the Department of Public Safety (DPS) for outside events, and the director/manager of the building for inside events. Compliance with the policy in the residence halls and University-owned/managed housing is the responsibility of the Director of Housing and Residence Life and the Residence Life staff.
University departments and Student Organizations also may impose additional, more stringent restrictions on the use and distribution of alcohol by their members. Additional University alcohol-related policies include the
- Community Standards Alcohol Violations (see Section 2.0);
- Dry Recruitment Policy (see Section 3.3),
- Student Organization Alcohol Policy (see Section 3.3), and
- Residence Life policies (see Section 5.0).
Alcohol guidelines for Student athletes can be obtained from the Athletic Department, located in the Chaifetz Arena. Copies of the Greek Social Event Policy, intended to provide risk management guidelines and govern the use and distribution of alcohol at fraternity and sorority events, are available at the Student Involvement Center, Room 319, Busch Student Center.
As a Catholic, Jesuit educational institution, Saint Louis University expects its Students to develop a responsible philosophy on the appropriate use of alcoholic beverages. The University encourages Students to consider all the implications of drinking and to arrive at a conscientious decision about how they will personally use alcohol.
The University may take reasonable steps to protect the rights of others threatened by illegal or immoderate drinking on campus or at social events sponsored by the University. The University, therefore, prohibits drinking that infringes on the rights of others, prohibits misconduct due to drinking or drinking by anyone under 21 years of age. The University prohibits any drinking patterns that lead to behaviors detrimental to the health and welfare of the individual, Student group or University community. Social activities are expected to have clear purposes, other than the consumption of alcoholic beverages. The University encourages moderation in the use of alcohol for those of legal age who choose to drink. The University strongly asserts that choosing not to drink is as socially acceptable as choosing to drink.
In accordance with our policy, the University will sponsor programs and develop guidelines to help community members understand the advantages of a healthy lifestyle, the consequences of use and abuse of alcohol, the moral implications of alcohol use, and the importance of personal and community responsibility.
Finally, in accordance with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act, the University annually provides written notification to Students that includes the University Alcohol and Drug Policies, counseling and assistance programs, University and legal sanctions, health risks, and uses and effects of controlled substances. All Students should become familiar with this information.
For assistance and information on issues relating to alcohol, please contact the Student Health Center at (314) 977-2323 or the University Counseling Center at (314) 977-8255 (TALK) (24-hours).
Alcohol Guidelines
Saint Louis University permits the lawful possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages on campus or at University activities by persons who are of legal drinking age, consistent with the following guidelines:
- Anyone under the age of 21 is not allowed to be in the presence or possession of alcohol in a residence hall, university owned/leased apartments, and/or University-owned/managed housing.
- Underage Students who have roommates who are over 21 can be in their living space when alcohol is present, however, the underage Student cannot consume alcohol and no one else under 21 can be present when alcohol is being consumed.
- Students living in residence halls, University-owned/managed buildings who are 21 years of age or older may bring small amounts of alcohol for personal consumption into the space to which they have been assigned.
- Residents who choose to use alcohol legally are expected to do so in a responsible manner, including, but not limited to, not distributing alcohol to minors, and not consuming alcohol in the presence of guests (non-roommates) who are under the age of 21.
- With the exception of a roommate, no alcohol is permitted in the presence of an underage Student.
- Alcohol collections and/or displays are prohibited in all residential spaces.
- No alcohol, whether in open or in uncovered unopened containers, is permitted in lounges, hallways, or other Residence halls and/or University-owned/managed public areas by anyone, of any age.
- No alcohol is permitted on the balcony of any University apartment.
- Kegs, party balls, beer bongs and similar large containers of alcohol are not permitted in the residence halls/living units.
- Irresponsible use of alcohol, regardless of age, resulting in public intoxication, disorderly conduct, vandalism or similar conduct will result in disciplinary action.
- Intoxicated residents may be prohibited from escorting guests into the residence halls/living units. In addition, intoxicated visitors may not be escorted into University housing, regardless of their escort.
- Should you be found in a room/living unit in which an alcohol policy is being violated, you will be subject to disciplinary action, regardless of age.
- Failure to comply with these Community Standards may result in disciplinary action.
- Alcohol and alcohol paraphernalia will be disposed of and/or confiscated.
Alcohol and Student Groups
The following guidelines apply to Student groups and organizations:
- The possession, sale, use or consumption of Alcoholic beverages, during an organizational event, in any situation sponsored or endorsed by the organization, or at any event an observer would associate with the Student Organization, must be in compliance with any and all applicable laws of the state, province, county, and/or city and must comply with University Third Party Vendor Guidelines, which can be found on the Student Involvement Center website. This Policy covers any and all activities conducted by recognized Student Organizations whether alone or in conjunction with a third party, regardless of the activities' location. In addition, fraternities and sororities must also follow these and any additional guidelines set forth by their respective governing councils.
- No alcoholic beverages may be purchased through or with organizational funds or by any members or guests in the name of or on behalf of the Student Organization. The purchase or use of a bulk quantity or common source(s) of alcoholic beverage, for example, kegs or cases, is prohibited.
- OPEN PARTIES, meaning those with unrestricted access by non-members of the Student Organization, without specific invitation, where alcohol is present, are prohibited.
- No members, collectively or individually, shall purchase for, serve to, or sell alcoholic beverages to anyone under the age of 21.
- No organization may co-sponsor an event with an alcohol distributor or tavern (tavern defined as any establishment for which the sale or distribution of alcoholic beverages is a specific focus of their business) at which alcohol is provided to those present. This includes any event held in, at or on the property of a tavern as defined above for purposes of fundraising. However, a Student Organization may rent or use a room or area in a tavern as defined above for a closed event held within the provisions of this Policy, including the use of a third-party vendor and guest list. As an exception to the Policy, Student Organizations (whose charter allows them to do so), may host events in the Billiken Club (in adherence with other relevant guidelines), including during hours of operation when alcohol is served.
- No Student Organization may co-sponsor, co-finance or attend or participate in a function at which alcohol is purchased by any of the host chapters, groups or organizations.
- All recruitment or rush activities associated with any Student Organization will be non-alcoholic. No recruitment or rush activities associated with any Student Organization may be held at or in conjunction with a tavern or alcohol distributor as defined in this policy.
- Student Organizations that violate the University's Student Organization Policies pertaining to alcohol or the University's Alcohol Policy and Guidelines will be subject to a maximum sanction allowed by the Community Standards, including suspension or expulsion from the University. Repeated violations will constitute sufficient grounds for the suspension or permanent dismissal of the organization from the University. To the extent that the University serves society by developing and sustaining an environment free of alcohol and drug abuse, the University reserves the right to take disciplinary action against Students involved in violations of the Standards and Alcohol Policy Guidelines occurring off campus. Disciplinary measures will be administered consistent with local, state and federal laws.
- University departments and Student Organizations also may impose additional, more stringent restrictions on the use and distribution of alcohol by their members. The University also reserves the right to restrict Student Organizations from holding off campus events at certain third party vendors or taverns.
University Sanctions
Students who violate the University Community Standards pertaining to alcohol, illicit drugs, and/or the Alcohol Policy and Guidelines will be subject to the maximum sanctions available under the community standards. In cases when a finding of responsibility is determined, the disciplinary history of a Student, Student Organization, and Student group, will be taken into consideration in determining the most appropriate outcome, which may include dismissal from the University if sufficient grounds exist.
Appropriate disciplinary action for violations of the University Community Standards and Alcohol Policy and Guidelines may include counseling and/or a satisfactory completion of a rehabilitation program. The University may, at its discretion, refer cases to the proper law enforcement authorities for arrest or prosecution. To the extent that the University serves society by developing and sustaining an environment free of alcohol and drug abuse, the University reserves the right to take disciplinary action against Students involved in violations of the Standards and Alcohol Policy Guidelines occurring off campus. Disciplinary measures will be administered consistent with local, state and federal laws.
Health Risks
There are numerous, serious health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and alcohol. Substance abuse, when left untreated, may lead to damaged vital organs such as the liver, brain, and kidneys. Other problems normally associated with substance abuse include nausea, vomiting, loss of memory, slurred speech, blurred vision, and violent acts of aggression. These effects, more often than not, lead to poor academic performance, loss of jobs, arrests, arguments with family and friends, and serious accidents.
Effects of Alcohol
Alcohol consumption causes a number of marked changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car safely, increasing the likelihood that the driver will be involved in an accident. Low to moderate doses of alcohol also increase the incidence of a variety of aggressive acts, including spouse and child abuse. Moderate to high doses of alcohol cause marked impairments in higher manual functions, severely altering a person’s ability to learn and remember information. Very high doses cause respiratory depression and death. If combined with other depressants of the central nervous system, much lower doses of alcohol will produce the effects just described. Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening. Long-term consumption of large quantities of alcohol, particularly when combined with poor nutrition, can also lead to permanent damage to vital organs such as the brain and the liver. Mothers who drink alcohol during pregnancy may give birth to infants with fetal alcohol syndrome. These infants have irreversible physical abnormalities and intellectual disabilities. In addition, research indicated that children of alcoholic parents are at a greater risk of becoming alcoholics than other children.
Legal Sanctions
Because of the harmful effects of alcohol and drug abuse, local state and federal governments have enacted laws making it a criminal offense to unlawfully possess, use or distribute illicit drugs or alcohol. These laws cover the one time, “social or recreational” users as well as the alcoholic and drug addict. In order to assist you in understanding the potential legal implications of such conduct, a summary of the criminal sanctions which may be imposed under local, state, and federal laws is provided below:
Missouri Law - Alcohol
Missouri’s Liquor Control Law makes it illegal, among other things, for a person under the age of 21 years to purchase, attempt to purchase, or possess any intoxicating liquor (Mo. REV. STAT. 311.325). Violation of this provision can result in a fine between $50 and $2,000 and/or imprisonment for a maximum term of one year. County and municipality ordinances contain similar prohibitions and sanctions.
Missouri Law - Drug
Missouri Drug Regulations (Mo. REV. STAT. § 579.055) make it unlawful for any person to distribute, deliver, manufacture, produce or attempt to distribute, deliver, manufacture or produce a controlled substance or to possess with intent to distribute, deliver, manufacture, or produce a controlled substance. Any person who violates or attempts to violate this section with respect to any controlled substance except for 35 grams or less of marijuana is guilty of a Class D felony. Additionally, it is a class A felony to distribute or deliver a controlled substance on or near University property. Persons convicted of this offense can be sentenced to imprisonment for not less than 10 years. Conviction for possession of illicit drugs may result in up to 7 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $10,000 unless the offense involves more than 10 grams but less than 35 grams of marijuana, which entails up to 1 year in prison and a fine of $2,000. Anyone who violates this law with respect to distributing or delivering 35 grams or less of marijuana may be guilty of a Class E felony.
Illinois Law - Alcohol
It is against Illinois law to sell or distribute alcoholic beverages to persons under 21 years of age or to anyone who is intoxicated. Violation is a Class A misdemeanor with a minimum fine of $500. Persons under 21 who possess alcoholic beverages on the street or in a public area may be subject to a Class A misdemeanor.
Illinois Law - Drug
The Illinois Controlled Substances Act (720 ILCS 570/201) makes possession of a controlled substance a felony criminal offense under Illinois law. Generally, possession convictions result in a Class 4 felony with a sentence of 1-3 years in prison or a fine of $25,000. Conviction for possession of illicit drugs results in a Class 1 felony with 6 to 50 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $200,000, unless the offense involves a smaller amount (100 grams or less) of certain drugs, which elicits 4 to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $200,000. The Illinois Drug Paraphernalia Act (720 ILCS 600/2) makes it a Class A misdemeanor to knowingly possess drug paraphernalia. The law does not distinguish between the types of drug paraphernalia used except for methamphetamine manufacturing materials. The penalties for possessing a pipe to smoke marijuana are the same as a needle to shoot heroin, even though heroin is regarded as a more dangerous drug.
Federal Law
Conviction for possession of illicit drugs results in the following:
- 8 years if the substance is heroin or any Schedule I or II opiate, an analogue of these, or cocaine base;
- 6 years if the substance is cocaine, flunitrazepam (Rohypnols), LSD, or PCP;
- 4 years if the substance is any other controlled substance or a list I chemical.
City of St. Louis Ordinance
Any person, with the exception of those individuals described in Section 2 of the ordinance, found in possession of 35 grams or less of marijuana shall be subject to a fine of not less than one hundred dollars and not more than five hundred dollars. There is a strong presumption that the proper disposition of any such case is to suspend the imposition of sentence and/or require community service work and/or drug counseling and education. The severity of the sanctions imposed for both possession and distribution offenses depend on the type and quantity of drugs, prior convictions, and whether death or serious injury resulted. Sanctions may be increased for offenses which involve distribution to minors or occur on or near campus. In addition, other federal laws require or permit forfeiture of personal or real property used to illegally possess, facilitate possession, transport or conceal a controlled substance. A person’s right to purchase a firearm or receive federal benefits, such as Student loans, grants, contracts, or professional or commercial licenses, may be revoked or denied as a result of a drug conviction. Additionally, federal law mandates that any Student who has been convicted of an offense under any federal or state law involving the possession or sale of a controlled substance shall not be eligible to receive any grant, loan, or work assistance during the period on the date of such conviction and ending after the interval specified.