As is all too familiar, the academic community is not isolated from such problems as alcohol and drug abuse. In order to comply with federal, state, and city laws, and to promote the health and well-being of our community, the Yeshiva has adopted a stringent policy on alcohol and drugs. All students, faculty, and staff are required to comply with this policy. Faculty, employees and students should make themselves familiar with this policy and the health risks associated with drug and alcohol use and the legal sanctions under local, State, and Federal law for unlawful possessions, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol.
ALCOHOL
We are committed to creating and maintaining an environment that is free of alcohol abuse. The Yeshiva expects that those who wish to include alcohol as part of their activities will do so responsibly and lawfully. Responsible drinking includes making sound judgments about whether, when, and how much to drink; understanding the health issues related to the consumption of alcohol; and avoiding excessive drinking and other abuses of alcohol that negatively affects one’s academic work, social and personal activities and health.
New York State law provides that:
Alcoholic beverages shall not be provided under any circumstances by any licensed server to any person under the age of 21 or to anyone who is disorderly, visibly intoxicated, or known to be a habitual drunkard.
No person under 21 years of age may misrepresent his age for the purpose of obtaining alcoholic beverages, nor may a person assist another in such a misrepresentation.
Proof of age must include presentation of a valid American or Canadian driver’s license or non-driver identification card, a valid passport, or a valid identification card issued by the United States Armed Forces.
No person under 21 years of age shall provide false or written evidence of age for the purpose of attempting to purchase alcoholic beverages.
No person under the age of 21 may possess any alcoholic beverage with the intent to consume it.
Actions or situations that involve forced consumption of liquor or drugs for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with any organization are prohibited.
Alcoholic beverages may not be served where money changes hands (sale of drinks, admission charged, donations solicited, etc.) without the appropriate license or permit.
Events that involve money changing hands require a Temporary Beer and Wine Permit issued by the New York State Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. Hard liquor is not permitted at these events. This includes free events under an organization which charges a membership fee.
Appropriate posted warnings about the effects of alcohol during pregnancy must appear at all events where alcohol is served.
Violation of these laws may subject the violator to legal penalties that can lead to suspension of one’s driver’s license to fine or imprisonment.
Within the College, the illegal or wrongful possession, provision, or consumption of alcohol, will lead to proceedings which can include a range of disciplinary sanctions including the requirement for psychological counseling and appropriate treatment; suspension or expulsion; or referral of violators for criminal prosecution.
On the first violation, a verbal warning will be given and documented; on the second a written warning, and on the third violation, the individual will be referred for disciplinary action.
Employees should note that they may not report to work or be at work while under the influence of alcohol.
DRUGS
The Yeshiva recognizes the illegality and danger of drug abuse and, accordingly, strictly prohibits the possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of illicit drugs on Yeshiva premises or as part of any Yeshiva activity.
Students and employees who violate the College’s policies concerning illicit drugs will face discipline up to and including expulsion or termination of employment, and may also include the requirement of completing an appropriate rehabilitation program. Moreover, all students and employees should be aware that, in addition to Yeshiva sanctions, they may be subject to criminal prosecution under federal and state laws that specify severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for drug-related criminal offenses. The seriousness of these crimes and the penalties imposed upon conviction usually depend upon the individual drug and amount involved in the crime. See the section below that provides information concerning sanctions under federal law.
The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a Controlled Substance in a Yeshiva Workplace by any Yeshiva employee is prohibited. A “Controlled Substance” is any of those substances referred to in Schedules I through V of Section 202 of the Controlled Sub stances Act, 21 U.S.C. 812, and as further defined in regulation at 21 CFR 1308.11-1308.15. These include substances that have a high potential for misuse or which, if abused, may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. Among these are heroin, other opium derivatives, marijuana, cocaine, and other hallucinogens.