The University of Connecticut released updated guidelines about the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act last week.
The notice from the university is released annually, according to the updated guidelines.
“The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act is a federal regulation which requires any institution of higher education receiving federal funds to certify it has adopted and implemented a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit alcohol and other drugs by all students and employees on school premises or as part of any of its activities,” according to UConn police.
The university guidelines discuss a variety of topics such as alcohol, cannabis, tobacco and nicotine, prescription medication and other substances.
The guidelines also give an overview of the university’s policy as listed in the student code.
“Our community at UConn is maintained by each individual and organization adhering to a code of conduct which emphasizes compassion, respect to self and others, honesty, and integrity,” according to UConn.
The student code has policy requirements created by UConn that define what the misuse of alcohol and other substances are. The policy also names ways that the “possession, sale, and distribution of alcohol and other substances may violate University policy,” according to the university.
Each topic in the guidelines goes over the effects and impact a substance or drug has on one’s health, the specific policy, the legal provisions and ways to reduce risk of the substance or drug.
For each different substance and drug, there are links to government websites to find more information.
The guidelines also provide resources and support for students who are struggling with alcohol and substance abuse.
Different colleges release their own guidelines concerning the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act.
Many of these guidelines share the same sentiment on alcohol and substance use and the health risks it poses to students. Different universities and colleges release these guidelines either with their policy reports or with their health, safety and fire reports.