The Florida State University Statement for Students on the Unlawful Possession, Use or Distribution of Illicit Drugs and Alcohol

Standards of Conduct

State of Florida statutes declare that it is unlawful for any person under 21 years of age to possess or consume alcoholic beverages. Consequently, no one under the legal drinking age may consume, distribute, or possess alcohol on University properties or as part of any University activity.

It is unlawful to sell, give, serve, or permit to be served alcoholic beverages to a person under 21 years of age. Furthermore, servers can be held civilly liable for damage caused by underage drinkers to whom they provided alcoholic beverages.

It is unlawful to be under the influence of, to use, possess, distribute, sell, offer, or agree to sell, or represent to sell, narcotics, hallucinogens, dangerous drugs, or controlled substances, except as where permitted by prescription or law.

Legal Sanctions

Alcohol Offenses

Illicit Drugs Offenses

The penalty for possession (second-degree misdemeanor) is 60 days jail and $500 fine. Penalties for trafficking (first-degree felony) range up to 30 years imprisonment and fines of up to $500,000.

Risks Associated with the Use of Illicit Drugs and the Abuse 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. Moderate doses of alcohol may increase the incidence of a variety of aggressive acts, including murder, rape, armed robbery, vandalism, spouse and child abuse, and drunk driving. High doses of alcohol often cause marked impairment in higher mental function, severely altering a person’s ability to learn and remember information and make judgments. Heavy use may cause chronic depression, and suicide and is also greatly associated with the abuse of other drugs. 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 described. The use of even small amounts of alcohol by a pregnant woman can damage a fetus.

Long-term heavy alcohol use can cause digestive disorders, cirrhosis of the liver, circulatory system disorders, and impairment of the central nervous system, all of which may lead to early death. Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence, particularly in persons with one or more parents or grandparents who were problem drinkers. At least 15–20% of heavy users will eventually become problem drinkers or alcoholics if they continue drinking. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake by alcoholics is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions, which can be life threatening.

Illicit drugs all have some health-threatening qualities—some more than others. Examples are lung damage for marijuana; central nervous system disorders for cocaine, heroin, and hallucinogens; and liver damage for inhalants. Dependence and addiction are constant threats to users. AIDS is widely spread among injection drug users. Regular abuse of these substances generally exposes users to criminal elements who may influence users to become involved in criminal activities in addition to their already illegal drug use.

Information about Alcohol and Drugs and Treatment Referral

PAR Program (Partnership for Alcohol Responsibility), (850) 644-6489, and the Alcohol and Other Drug Specialist, 644-8871, within the Health Enhancement Department of the Thagard Student Health Center, provides educational workshops for any audience on request. It has an extensive reference library and refers students seeking assistance with alcohol and drug matters.

The Tallahassee Telephone Counseling and Referral Service phone number is (850) 224–NEED, and Alcoholics Anonymous is 224-1818.

The Florida State University Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic ([850] 644-1588) provides limited treatment. Students may also receive counseling at the Student Counseling Center, 644-2003.

Additional information is available on the Internet at the following websites:

1. Children of Alcoholics Foundation at http://www.coaf.org
2. National Association for Children of Alcoholics at http://www.health.org/nacoa
3. Alcoholics Anonymous at http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org
4. Families and Friends of Alcoholics at http://www.al-anon-alateen.org

University Disciplinary Sanctions for Alcohol/Drug Offenses

The disciplinary function at The Florida State University is an integral part of the educational mission of the University. Students in violation of state laws, city ordinances, or University policies will be reported to The Florida State University authorities for disciplinary action. Disciplinary processes are outlined in the Student Code of Conduct which gives the university authority to impose sanctions including suspension, dismissal, and expulsion. Parental notification is given with underage students.