Drugs
A number of states have legalized the cultivation and use of marijuana for medical purposes. Also, some states have allowed the recreational use of marijuana.
The growth and use of marijuana is illegal under the Federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Marijuana use and possession remains illegal under federal law despite the action of the states’ legalization of same as cited above.
The supreme Court has made clear that federal law supersedes any and all state law regarding medical marijuana. Therefore, the use or possession of marijuana even for medical purposes is illegal under federal law.
Students or others in the Albright community with disabilities may argue that possession and use of marijuana for medical purposes is not only legal, but possibly even necessary as an accommodation under the American with Disabilities Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. However, laws and regulations under both statutes make clear that illegal drug use is not protected and courts have held that the use and possession of marijuana remains illegal.
Thus, to be consistent with its policies regarding drugs and alcohol, the policy of Albright regarding illegal use of drugs and alcohol includes marijuana even for medical purposes. Students, therefore, have no right to use or possess marijuana on the Albright campus.
- Standard of Conduct –Possession, use and/or distribution of non-prescription 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. 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.
- College 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 (including hookahs and other smoking devices) on Albright College property will be subject to community standards sanctions and educational programming. 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 may be subject to more severe sanctions including suspension and/or expulsion.
- Local, State and Federal Laws – In addition to sanctions imposed by the College, drug violations may be referred to the appropriate external authorities. Under local, state and federal laws, such as the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, violations as specified above may result in penalties ranging from fines through imprisonment. There are circumstances when controlled substance convictions will interfere with federal financial aid eligibility. If you find yourself in a situation on-campus or off-campus where you believe your eligibility for federal financial aid could be in jeopardy, please contact the Director of Financial Aid for guidance and support.
- 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.
- Treatment –The College provides confidential counseling services to students through TimelyCare. Albright College partners with Caron Counseling to offer psychoeducational groups as well as one on one assessment and counseling services. Services are available for those who desire treatment as well as those who are sanctioned for drug and/or alcohol offenses. Caron Counseling offers both outpatient and inpatient services for those who have more serious concerns.
Alcohol
- Standard of Conduct – Possession, distribution, use and/or consumption of alcohol by students under 21 years of age is strictly prohibited on campus. 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 are not permitted. No alcohol is permitted at Greek rush events.
- College Sanctions – Students who violate any of the above alcohol regulations will be subject to our judicial process. Subsequent offenses will result in increased sanctions. Offenses and sanctions will be kept on file in the Community Standards office and reported to the appropriate agencies.
- Local and State Laws – In addition to sanctions imposed by the College, alcohol violations may be referred to the appropriate external authorities. Under local and state laws, such as the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, 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.
- 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 College policy while under the influence of alcohol.
- Treatment – The College provides confidential counseling services to students through TimelyCare. Albright College partners with Caron Counseling to offer psychoeducational groups as well as one on one assessment and counseling services. Services are available for those who desire treatment as well as those who are sanctioned for drug and/or alcohol offenses. Caron Counseling offers both outpatient and inpatient services for those who have more serious concerns.
This information 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] and again amended in the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) [Public Law 110-315] was enacted on August 13, 2008.
