04.08 Drug and Alcohol Free Campus

Bethel University seeks to maintain a work and educational environment that is safe for our employees and students and conducive to high work standards that support an efficient and effective workforce. To that end, and in accordance with appropriate federal legislation, Bethel prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, possession, sale, or use of illegal drugs, illicit and non-medicinal drugs, designer and synthetic drugs, prohibited drugs, and drug-related paraphernalia; alcohol is prohibited on Bethel property and at Bethel sponsored events off campus. This policy applies to Bethel property, and/or while attending a business activity, while on duty, or while operating a vehicle or machine leased or owned by Bethel. Each employee shall be responsible for notifying the Office of People and Culture of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation at Bethel University no later than five days after such conviction.

As applicable, Bethel shall notify the appropriate federal contracting agency within 10 days after receiving notice from an employee, student, or law enforcement agency of a criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring at Bethel. Any person convicted for the use, possession, or sale of illegal drugs on or off Bethel premises may be subject to discipline up to and including termination.

Employees must, as a condition of employment and consistent with Bethel's Lifestyle Expectations, abide by the terms of this policy. Failure to comply shall be grounds for termination. 

The standards of conduct at Bethel University clearly prohibit the use, possession and/or distribution of illicit or non-medicinal drugs and alcohol by students and employees on Bethel property and at Bethel sponsored events off campus.

Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) of 1994 (Public Law 103-382) requires that, as a condition of receiving funds or any other form of financial assistance under any Federal program, an institution of higher education must certify that it has adopted and implemented a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees.

The University will impose sanctions on community members who violate laws and/or campus policy up to and including expulsion or termination and may refer them for prosecution under local, state, and federal law. Legal sanctions under applicable local, state, or federal laws may include incarceration, significant monetary fines, probationary terms and other penalties. Rehabilitation may become a condition of continuing association with the institution. Appropriate referral to counseling and health agencies will be made for individuals as needed. Support and help are available as are additional information and educational opportunities (see below).

Health risks associated with the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs may lead to substance dependency, lack of productivity, chronic health problems, and even death in extreme cases. Bethel stands willing to assist in the resolution of problems associated with the use of alcohol and drugs and encourages employees to seek medical help by contacting their private physician or one of the resources listed. Further information about alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, along with their health risks, legal risks, and federal and state laws regarding controlled substances is available in the web site links below.

Resources:

If you need assistance overcoming an addiction to drugs or alcohol, the following programs be able to help.

Additional Information Available Online: