Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program Biennial Review

The Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Regulations (345 CFR Part 86) of the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) requires an institution of higher education (IHE) such as Rogers State University (RSU) certify implemented programs to prevent the abuse of alcohol and use or distribution of illicit drugs both by COD students and employees both on its premises and as a part of any of its activities. At a minimum, each institution of higher educations must annually distribute the following in writing to all students and employees:

  • Standards of conduct that clearly prohibit the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees;
  • A description of the legal sanctions under local, state, or federal law for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol;
  • A description of any drug or alcohol counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation or reentry programs that are available to employees or students; and
  • A clear statement that the institution will impose sanctions on students and employees and a description of those sanctions, up to and including expulsion or termination of employment and referral for prosecution, for violations of the standards of conduct.

The law further requires that the institution conduct a biennial review of its program with the following objectives:

  • Determining the effectiveness of the policy and implementing changes to the alcohol and other drug programs if they are needed; and
  • To ensure that the sanctions developed are enforced consistently.

The biennial review must also include determinations as to:

  • The number of drug and alcohol related violations and fatalities occurring on the campus or as part of their activities that are reported to campus officials;
  • The number and type of sanctions the IHE’s impose on students or employees as a result of such violations and fatalities.

RSU  acknowledges its legal obligation to conduct a biennial review of compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act and authorized an administrative review to determine if the University fulfills the previously mentioned Federal Regulations requirements. Drug – Free Schools and Communities Act

​It is the policy of RSU to provide a drug and alcohol free environment and work place as defined by the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1994. RSU shall review its compliance on a biennial basis to determine its effectiveness and to ensure that the standards of conduct and judicial sanctions have been consistently enforced. This review shall be documented in a report.

RSU prohibits the unlawful possession, use, distribution, dispensing and manufacture of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on its property or as part of any College activity.

Students who violate this policy will be governed by the University’s Code of Student Conduct and subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension, expulsion and referral for prosecution. A judicial sanction for violating this policy may include the completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program. Employees who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with their appropriate employee group regulations up to and including suspension, termination of employment and referral for prosecution.

Students, employees and visitors are subject to local, state and federal laws. Criminal penalties for such violations may include assigned community service, fines and imprisonment. In addition, property used in connection with illegal drugs may be confiscated, federal student loans, grants and contracts may be denied, and driving privileges may be revoked. Penalties for violations will apply.

Programs for Students Requiring Assistance

Any Rogers State University student who has a drug or alcohol related problem may call upon the University for assistance. Anyone needing help may contact the Office of Counseling Services located in the Dr. Carolyn Taylor Center. The counseling staff can provide a confidential referral to a drug or alcohol treatment program.

Health Risks

The use of drugs and alcohol can have a substantial and detrimental effect on health. These effects are often permanent and can lead to severe physical and psychological impairment, disability and premature death. Information on the effects of drugs and alcohol is available the Division of Student Affairs, Counseling, and the Rogers State University Police Department.

Legal Sanctions

Use of illicit drugs by any person is illegal under both the state and federal statutes. Use of alcohol by persons under 21 years of age is illegal under state law. Penalties for conviction under state and federal law include incarceration and fines. Property used in connection with illegal drugs may be confiscated. Federal student loans and grants may be denied to those convicted for a violation of a criminal drug statute.

Alcohol

The RSU community owe it to themselves and others to make educated decisions about their use or distribution of alcohol. The State of Oklahoma prohibits the sale, use or possession of all forms of alcoholic beverages by persons less than 21 years of age. Students are responsible for adhering to the Code of Student Conduct and Drug-Free School policy.