Alcohol and Other Drugs
Policies and Procedures
Tulane Alcohol Beverage Policy
Preamble
All students, faculty and staff at Tulane share in the responsibility for creating and maintaining a healthy and
productive environment for work and study. When a member of the Tulane community does not use alcohol
responsibility that decision adversely affects the University community because it impedes the ability of the
University to provide an environment that is conducive to excellence in teaching, research and learning. The
University’s comprehensive approach to addressing alcohol abuse emphasizes:
1. Taking effective steps to create and maintain a productive workplace and educational environment for
students, faculty and staff.
2. Providing prevention education, responsible use education and counseling services on and off campus as
appropriate.
3. Encouraging Tulane community members who suffer from alcohol related effects to seek voluntary and
confidential assessment, counseling and/or treatment without fear of reprisal.
All members of the university community shall adhere to all applicable state and local laws, and Tulane
University regulations regarding the sale, possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages.
Summary of Certain State Laws
The following is a summary of certain Louisiana laws regarding the purchase, possession and use of
alcoholic beverages:
• It is unlawful to falsify a driver’s license or other identification document in order to obtain or attempt to
obtain any alcoholic beverages, or to permit someone else to use one’s driver’s license or other identification document to obtain or attempt to obtain any alcoholic beverages.
• It is unlawful for any person under 21 to purchase or publicly possess any alcoholic beverages. Public
possession means possession of any alcoholic beverage on any ”street or highway or in any public place
or any place open to the public, including a club which is de facto open to the public.”
• It is unlawful for any person, other than a parent, spouse, or legal guardian, to purchase on behalf of a
person under 21 any alcoholic beverages.
• It is unlawful to sell any alcoholic beverages to any person under 21.
University Policies
General
In addition to Louisiana law, Tulane’s policies regarding the possession and use of alcohol are:
1. No one may serve alcoholic beverages on Tulane University property or within University facilities without
proper written permission. The appropriate administrator (university president, vice presidents, deans,
directors, or department heads) may grant permission to those persons, groups of persons or organizations within their areas of responsibility.
2. No one may consume alcoholic beverages in uncontrolled areas such as streets and sidewalks.
3. Service of alcoholic beverages shall be limited to those over the age of 21, and pursuant to University
Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013 • 21
procedure, University trained personnel will monitor access to alcoholic beverage service areas by those
under age 21.
4. Alcohol manufacturers, distributors or drinking establishments may not advertise in or on university
property, including but not limited to residence halls, recreation centers, kiosks or academic buildings.
Similarly, university organizations shall not promote alcoholic beverage manufacturers, distributors or
drinking establishments other than to announce a university event location.
5. Faculty and staff are also subject to the alcohol and other drug policies contained in their respective
handbooks and should familiarize themselves with those policies.
On-Campus Events
The following rules apply to all members of the university community hosting or sponsoring an event on
campus, or at university-recognized functions, at which alcoholic beverages will be served.
1. Timing and location of all events where alcohol is present must be sensitive to the academic mission and
needs of the University community. Beginning with the last day of classes and continuing through the close
of the final examination period, there may be no student-sponsored events where alcohol is present.
2. With the exception of official, private functions approved by the senior administrator responsible for the
area hosting the event, vendors holding a state-issued Alcohol Beverage License are the only parties
allowed to serve alcoholic beverages on campus. Both the host of the event and the sponsoring organization are responsible for compliance with this policy and with all applicable state and local laws. The
following guidelines concern the serving and consumption of alcoholic beverages during a properly
registered event:
• Servers of alcohol shall not consume alcoholic beverages before or during the event.
• Service shall not be provided to any individual without clear evidence of legal age.
• There must be a system in place to ensure that no one who is under 21 years of age is served any alcoholic beverages. Such systems may include, but are not limited to:
A. checking of government-issued picture identification at the entrance (acceptable identification
includes a valid driver’s license with photo, a government-issued photo identity card issued to
non-drivers, or a passport); University identification cards are not sufficient proof of age
B. use of a wrist band or ink stamp to mark the hands of all persons determined to be of legal
drinking age
• Except for registered BYOB events, alcoholic beverages may not be brought into events where alcohol is being served.
3. Servers and hosts should assure that alcohol use at the event is responsible and safe by observing the
following guidelines at a minimum:
• The sponsor of an event must maintain a statement of persons and/or groups for whom the event is
intended.
• Obviously intoxicated persons are not to be served alcoholic beverages.
• Both the host of the event and the sponsoring organization are required to provide, in sufficient
quantity throughout the event, food and one or more nonalcoholic beverages, e.g. soda, water, juice,
or coffee. If alcoholic beverages are being sold, the nonalcoholic beverage(s) should be available at
a reasonable price.
• The University prohibits drinking games or any activity which encourages or contributes to alcohol
overindulgence or abuse.
• The University prohibits alcoholic beverages over 100 proof.
• The University prohibits the serving of alcohol in vats or punch bowls, or as a prize or free award
4. Both the host of the event and the sponsoring organization must ensure that all event promotion is responsible and appropriate. Event advertising (e.g., flyers, banners, invitations, T-shirts, signs, etc.) must not
overtly or covertly state or imply an invitation to participate in excessive drinking.
5. Hosting or sponsoring organizations must register their events with appropriate authorities as described
below:
22 • Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013
• All hosts or sponsoring organizations must take steps to assure the safety of attendees, including the
provision of adequate security, following guidelines and payment schedules issued by and available
from the university’s Department of Public Safety. Both the host of the event and the sponsoring
organization must abide by all capacity restrictions as established by the State Fire Marshal.
• All students or student organizations planning an event where alcohol will be present must register the
event by completing a an Event Registration Form (available at http://studentprograms.tulane.edu
or the Office of Student Programs) and submitting it to the Office of Student Programs at least three
weeks prior to the event. All other organizations should register such events with their appropriate
administrator at least 5 working days prior to the event. Events at Greek houses must be registered
with the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Programs. Any students responsible for an event must be
present at the event and must have attended a Responsible Host Seminar.
On-Campus Residences
In addition to the above rules governing on-campus events, the following policies apply to residence halls and
on-campus apartments:
1. Anyone under the age of 21 may not possess or consume alcoholic beverages anywhere on campus at
any time, including in residence hall rooms or apartments.
2. Students of any age and their guests may not possess open containers of alcohol or consume alcoholic
beverages in public areas (such as lobbies, hallways, stairwells, balconies, walkways, patios/picnic
areas, lounges or other public areas).
3. Students of any age may not possess kegs, party balls, or other large quantities of alcohol in any residence hall room/apartment.
4. Students under the age of 21 may not possess alcoholic beverage containers (whether full or empty) in
residence hall rooms or apartments.
5. The University forbids the purchase, sale, and delivery of alcoholic beverages in and around on-campus
housing.
6. Students may not brew alcoholic beverages in the residence halls. This rule includes in the privacy of their
rooms, in or around residential areas, and in public areas (such as lobbies, hallways, stairwells, balconies, walkways, patios/picnic areas, lounges or the areas immediately surrounding the residence halls).
Off-Campus Events
This portion of the policy applies to events that divisions, departments, and other recognized university
organizations sponsor or host outside the university’s campus. Nothing in this policy is intended to prevent a
university organization from holding an off-campus event at an establishment that serves alcohol, as long as
the consumption of alcohol is not mentioned. All divisions, departments, and other recognized university organizations that sponsor events that sponsor events with alcoholic must follow all state and local laws, as well
as the university policies set forth above. As all events associated with the university contribute to its reputation
and public standing, it is the university’s expectation and requirement that decorum and good judgment will
be maintained at all events.
University divisions, other recognized organizations, faculty, and staff planning to host events off-campus at
which students under the age of 21 will be present:
• are expected to adhere to the same policies as for on-campus events set forth in this policy to assure
the safety, security and legality of the event
• must submit a description of the proposed event to the senior administrator with responsibility over the
area hosting the event
University divisions and other recognized organizations hosting events off-campus at which no students will
be present are strongly encouraged to review the same policies and guidelines, bearing in mind the need for
responsible event planning and hosting.
Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013 • 23
The University requires that all Greek organizations must also adhere to the Tulane Neighborhood Relations
Standards, their respective national Greek standards and the lnterfraternity or Panhellenic Council regulations.
Policy Violations and Enforcement
Faculty and staff members who violate this policy shall be referred to the appropriate dean, director, or
department head. Students and student organizations shall be referred to the Vice President for Student
Affairs, or his designated representative. The university president and his designees are the ultimate authority
responsible for enforcing this policy; however, all employees and students are responsible for adhering to
these policies.
Entertainment Expenses
• University policy prohibits reimbursement of expenses incurred for the personal use of alcoholic
beverages, as well as for meals, entertainment and bar bills of personal guests.
• Generally, expenses for purchase of alcohol are not reimbursable in connection with meetings or
meals where only university employees are present and conducting university business. University
officers, Deans and Associate Deans may authorize reimbursement in exceptional circumstances,
provided that the business purpose of the meeting is clearly documented. Such approval can take
the form of a signature on the reimbursement request. Alcohol expenses may be reimbursed in
connection with authorized entertainment and meeting activities where non-employees are present
if the nature of these activities is properly documented. Again, reviewers will consider the overall
reasonableness of entertainment expenses based on per head calculations.
• Entertainment includes any activity considered to provide amusement or recreation and may include
meals and refreshments provided to existing or potential customers, vendors, contractors, existing or
potential donors, individuals providing academic consultation and services, as well as in the recruitment of faculty and staff. Such costs must be reasonable, ordinary and necessary. “Ordinary” means
that such costs are common and accepted in a field of business, and “necessary” means that such
activities are helpful (though not indispensable) for the conduct of business.
Student Conduct, (504) 865-5516
Reviewed 7/2010
Reviewed 7/2012
Alcohol Policy and Guidelines for On-Campus Outdoor Events
Sponsoring departments and student organizations are responsible for compliance with the university alcohol
policy, state laws and local ordinances at any event where alcohol is used, served, or sold on university property. Sponsoring entities should take the following steps to ensure compliance and a safe, responsible event:
1. Registering the Event
• All students or student organizations planning an event where alcohol will be present must register the
event by completing and submitting an Event with Alcohol Registration Form to the Office of Student
Programs (available at studentprograms.tulane.edu or the Office of Student Programs). Registration forms
must be submitted at least 3 weeks before the event.
• Event budgets must be included at the time of submission. If alcohol is provided free of charge, the
overall cost of food and entertainment will be considered to determine the quantity of alcohol that will be
approved for the event. Approval is at the discretion of the Office of Student Programs.
• All Greek Organizations must register events with the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Programs.
24 • Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013
2.Alcohol Licenses or Permits
The state of Louisiana requires a proper license or permit for any function where alcohol is sold. Further
information concerning state alcohol permits can be found at www.atc.rev.state.la.us. Vendors holding a
state-issued Alcohol Beverage License are the only parties allowed to serve alcoholic beverages at events
held outdoors on university property.
3.Identifying Students of Legal Age
The vendor serving alcohol at the event is responsible for identifying those individuals at the event who can
legally consume alcohol. The checking of government-issued identification will occur adjacent to the point
of service, where wrist banding will take place. Banding and service shall not be provided to any individual
without clear evidence of legal age. The use of a falsely obtained wristband is subject to sanctions under the
Student Code of Conduct.
4. Alcohol Servers and Service
• Beer and wine are the only alcoholic beverages approved to be served at events on a university quad.
Only one drink will be served to an individual at a time. Alcoholic drinks must be served in 12 ounce (beer)
or 6 ounce (wine) containers distinct from those in which non-alcoholic drinks are served. Kegs managed
by third-party vendors are permissible. The University prohibits alcoholic beverages over 100 proof or the
serving of alcohol in vats or punch bowls.
• The recommended Alcohol Consumption Formula is: One serving of alcohol per person per hour, for
each guest of legal age. One serving of alcohol is measured as follows:
o Beer: Twelve ounces in volume
o Wine: Five ounces in volume
• Servers of alcohol shall not consume alcoholic beverages before or during the event. At social functions
where alcoholic beverages are served, direct access should be limited to a person(s) designated as the
server(s), by a licensed vendor or the social host.
• Secondary serving is prohibited. Individuals of legal age may not provide alcohol to minors. If it is found
that secondary serving occurred, all parties involved will be fined $200 each, required to attend BASICS
and will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct for additional sanctions.
• The university reserves the right to refuse to serve anyone who appears to be in danger of overconsumption. Intoxicated persons are not to be served alcoholic beverages or permitted to possess alcoholic
beverages.
• Alcoholic beverages must be consumed only within designated areas on campus. No alcoholic beverages may be brought into an event when alcoholic beverages are being served or sold by event organizers.
The only alcoholic beverages that may be possessed or consumed at the function are those beverages
sold or served at the event location. Under no circumstances may any alcoholic beverage be permitted
to leave the approved area of the event.
• Service of alcohol will end 30 minutes before the end time of the event. For events that are scheduled for
4 hours or longer, service will end 60 minutes before the end of the event.
• No alcoholic beverage may be purchased through undergraduate student organization funds, nor may
the purchase of alcohol for members or guests be undertaken or coordinated by any member in the name
of, or on behalf of, the undergraduate student organization.
• No department or student organization may enter into an agreement to co-sponsor an event with an alcohol distributor, bar or charitable organization where alcohol is given away, sold, or otherwise provided to
those present.
5.Alternatives to Alcohol Beverages and Food
• Hosts must provide one or more nonalcoholic beverages e.g. soft drink, water, juice, or coffee in sufficient
quantity throughout the event. The alternative beverage(s) should be available at a price equal to or less
than the price of the alcohol being provided.
Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013 • 25
• Non-alcoholic beverages must be available at the same place as the alcoholic beverages and featured
as prominently as the alcoholic beverages.
• Food must be in sufficient quantity throughout the event for the number of guests invited or expected.
• Substantial food choices are required. Please refer to the Event Registration and Approval Process
Document for recommendation of substantial food choices. Chips and other salty snack foods are not
considered adequate offerings to balance the service of alcohol.
6.Security
All event registrations must include a detailed plan for security. Large events, defined as attendance greater
than 200, will also require consultation with the Assistant Dean for Student Programs and TUPD to determine
appropriate police staffing levels. All events require security, whether university or private duty, to enforce
state law and the University Alcohol Policy. Security includes: (1) preventing unauthorized persons from going
behind the bar or causing a disturbance at the event, (2) ensuring that unauthorized alcohol is not brought
into or removed from the event, and (3) ensuring that visibly intoxicated persons are not admitted or allowed
to remain at the event. If the vendor or host of the event encounters difficulty enforcing the Alcohol Policy, he
or she should request assistance from TUPD.
7. Cost to attend
The cost of admission to an event may not include or cover the cost of alcoholic beverages. The price of
alcoholic beverages sold at an event will be offered at a minimum price of $2.00 per standard drink serving.
8. Promotional Guidelines:
All announcement(s) or advertisement(s), including but not limited to flyer(s), notice(s), poster(s), banner(s),
tee-shirt(s) newspaper or radio announcement(s), pertaining to the event shall NOT:
• Make reference to the amount of alcoholic beverages available, for example, the number of kegs of beer or
open bar.
• Encourage any form of alcohol abuse nor place emphasis on quantity of alcohol.
Wellness Services, (504) 247-1538
Revised 9/2011
Reviewed 8/2012
Tulane University Drug Free Environment Statement
The following information is presented in response to the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment
of 1989 (Public Law 101-226), Section 22: “Drug-Free Schools and Campuses.”
SECTION 1213 SUBPART B (A) (1) requires “that the University distribute on an annual basis, to each student
and employee, an account of “standards of conduct that prohibit the unlawful possession, use, or distribution
of illicit drugs and alcohol.” Students and employees of Tulane University are prohibited from the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illegal drugs or alcohol on Tulane property or as part of University-sponsored
activities. The abuse of alcohol and other drugs by students and employees can result in serious damage
to both their physical and mental health as well as endanger the safety of others. The University expects its
citizens to comply with University policies and with applicable city, state, and federal laws.
SECTION 1213 SUBPART B (A) (2) requires “a description of the applicable legal sanctions under local,
26 • Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013
state, or federal law for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol.” Drug and alcohol
regulations are contained in several Louisiana state statutes. State Revised Statute 14:91.5 prohibits the
purchase of alcoholic beverages by anyone under 21 years of age. Persons between 18 and 21 years of
age may possess and consume alcohol in private residences and at private events which are not open to
the public. Violators can be fined between $100 and $500 and/or be sentenced to between 30 days to 6
months in jail. State Revised Statute 40:961 to 40:971 establishes penalties for the distribution and consumption of illicit drugs. Penalties range from a minimum of six months in jail and a $500 fine to a maximum of life
imprisonment. Public Law 101- 226 (Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989) provides
for a loss of Federal financial aid to higher education institutions that fail to comply with the guidelines here
published. The Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 prohibits all employees (faculty and staff) from the unlawful
manufacture, distribution, sale, possession, or use of any controlled substance in the workplace. Any employee convicted of a criminal drug statute violation occurring in the workplace must report the conviction to the
University. A convicted employee may be terminated for not reporting the violation or failing to follow through
with professional assistance to remediate the problem.
SECTION 1213 SUBPART B (A) (3) requires “a description of health risks associated with the use of illicit
drugs and the abuse of alcohol.”
Alcohol: Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that alters a variety of activities in the brain. Abuse
of this substance slows reactions, depresses the respiratory system, causes unconsciousness, and can result
in death. Long-term dangers include irreversible damage to body tissue (brain, liver, pancreas, and kidneys),
memory problems, and nutritional deficiencies. For pregnant women, alcohol consumption poses significant
risks of fetal damage.
Tobacco: Tobacco is linked with more serious health problems than nearly all other psychoactive drugs. Tobacco causes an estimated 350,000 deaths in the United States per year. Chronic smoking is causally linked
to cancer (of the lungs, larynx, and mouth), heart disease, and respiratory problems, including bronchitis and
pulmonary emphysema. Users of smokeless tobacco face a four times greater risk of cancers of the throat and
mouth than non-users, particularly with long-term use. Nicotine produces constriction of blood vessels, loss of
appetite, and a sharp rise in blood pressure and heart rate.
Marijuana: Marijuana (cannabis) is a tobacco-like substance produced by drying the leaves and flowering
tops of the marijuana plant. Potency of the substance varies greatly, and plants may be sprayed with agents
that pose significant health risks to the user. Marijuana raises heart rates and lowers blood pressure, causing
reddening of the eyes. Psychological dependence is a common problem. High dosage or chronic use can
trigger panic and anxiety in some users. Regular use interferes with learning and concentration, resulting in
low motivation and further dependence on the drug. Marijuana can have a serious effect on pregnancy.
Women who smoke marijuana during pregnancy may give birth to babies with defects similar to those seen in
infants born with fetal alcohol syndrome—for example, low body weight and small head size.
Cocaine: The most potent stimulant found in nature, cocaine is extracted from the leaves of the coca plant.
Cocaine is usually distributed as a white crystalline powder that is commonly “snorted” through the nose,
smoked, or injected. Repeated nasal use produces symptoms that resemble the congestion of a common
cold. Cocaine is a highly addictive drug which can cause seizures and death from respiratory failure, stroke,
cerebral hemorrhage, or heart failure. “Crack,” or cocaine in the form of chips or “rocks,” is usually vaporized
in a pipe or smoked with other materials in a cigarette or a “joint.” “There is no specific treatment for cocaine
overdose,” nor does the body develop tolerance to the toxic effects of this drug. There is no “safe” dose of
cocaine.
LSD and Other Hallucinogens: LSD, an abbreviation for lysergic acid diethylamide, comes from the ergot
Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013 • 27
fungus which grows on rye or from a chemical found in morning glory seeds. As a hallucinogen, LSD acts
on the central nervous system by altering the production and processing of chemical neuro-transmitters in the
brain. LSD is usually sold in the form of tablets, thin squares of gelatin (“window panes”), or impregnated
paper (“blotter acid”). Hallucinogens increase blood pressure and body temperature, cause dilation of the
pupils, and speed up heart and reflex rate. Common hallucinogens include LSD, mescaline, and amphetamine
variants such as MDMA, PCP, phencyclidine analogues, and psilocybin, among others. Hallucinogens can
profoundly impair judgment, coordination, and thought and make driving or other common activities life
threatening. Permanent schizophrenia, paranoia, memory loss, coma, and death can result from chronic PCP
use. The potential for brain damage is real and the sheer unpredictability of reactions to LSD (often depending
on the user’s psychological and emotional state) makes this a very dangerous substance.
Other Illicit Drugs: Tulane students and employees are warned that reactions to substances vary on the basis
of a number of factors such as age, physical condition, emotional state, as well as the nature and the amount
of the substance used. Please see Appendix B for information on uses and effects of controlled substances.
SECTION 1213 SUBPART (A) (4) requires “a description of any drug or alcohol counseling, treatment, or
rehabilitation or re-entry programs that are available to employees or students.” Tulane students are served by
a Substance Abuse Clinic located in the Student Health Center (uptown), Building 92, Room 338, telephone
865-5255, extension 235. Tulane also has in place an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), located at the
Tulane Medical Center (downtown), telephone 587-7485. Both programs provide prevention, intervention,
and counseling support to members of the Tulane community.
Other University Resources
• Center for Educational Resources and Counseling/ERC
1st Floor, Mechanical Engineering Building,
Uptown Campus, (504) 865-5113
• Student Health Center, Department of Psychiatry
Uptown Campus, (504) 865-5255, extension 235
Community Resources
• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Central Office, (504) 885-6700
• AL-ANON, (504) 888-1356
• Narcotics Anonymous, (504) 899-6262
• tulane.edu/~health/text/SAC_links1.html
SECTION 1213 SUBPART B (A)(5) requires “a clear statement that the institution will impose sanctions on
students and employees (consistent with local, state and federal law), 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 required by paragraph (a)(1).” The University will impose sanctions for violations of
local, state and federal laws as well as for violations of regulations contained in student and employee codes
and handbooks. Violators may be punished by expulsion, termination of employment, and referral for prosecution. University sanctions will depend upon the past record of the violator and the severity of the violation.
Failure to complete a designated rehabilitation program may be cause to terminate an employee or exclude a
student from the University.
Tulane Tobacco Free Campus Policy
Research findings show that tobacco use in general, including smoking and breathing second- hand smoke,
constitutes a significant health hazard. Second-hand smoke, also known as environmental tobacco smoke, is a
Class A carcinogen. Its many detrimental effects on health are well established and include triggering asthma
28 • Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013
attacks, causing lung cancer, and causing cardiovascular and lung diseases. In addition to causing direct
health hazards, smoking contributes to institutional costs in other ways, including fire damage, cleaning and
maintenance costs, and costs associated with employee absenteeism, healthcare, and medical insurance.
For the purposes of this policy, smoking is defined as burning any type of tobacco product, including, but
not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, pipes, bidis and hookahs. Smokeless tobacco products are also
prohibited in all circumstances where smoking is prohibited.
Tulane University therefore has set the following policy regarding tobacco on its campuses:
1. University Properties
• Smoking is permitted on campus in designated areas only. Anyone smoking outside of these areas is in
violation of this policy.
In addition
• Smoking is prohibited in all campus buildings and outside in areas of the campus where non-smokers
cannot avoid exposure to smoke. Specifically, smoking is prohibited in all campus buildings, including
classrooms, lecture halls, laboratories, offices, work areas, study areas, reception areas, meeting
rooms, lobbies, hallways, stairwells, elevators, eating areas, lounges, and restrooms. Furthermore,
smoking is prohibited in all partially enclosed areas such as covered walkways, breezeways, and
walkways between sections of buildings, parking garages, and bus stop shelters; areas immediately
adjacent to building entrances; and exterior stairways and landings.
• Smoking is prohibited in all Tulane University residential facilities, residence halls, and apartments.
• Smoking is prohibited up to 25 feet outside any enclosed area where smoking is prohibited to ensure
that 2nd hand smoke does not enter the area through entrances, windows, ventilation systems, or
any other means.
• Organizers and attendees at public events, such as conferences, meetings, public lectures, social
events and cultural events, using Tulane facilities will be required to abide by the University tobacco
policy. Organizers of such events are responsible for communicating this policy to attendees and for
enforcing this policy.
• Smoking is prohibited in all Tulane University vehicles.
2. Sale of Tobacco Products
• The sale of any type of tobacco on campus is prohibited. This includes the delivery of tobacco products to
campus by means of delivery services of any kind.
3. Accepting Money or Gifts Promoting Tobacco Use
• The free distribution of tobacco products by commercial enterprises on campus is prohibited.
• University organizations are prohibited from accepting money or gifts to promote tobacco products. This
includes parties sponsored by tobacco companies or at which there is distribution of free, reduced-price,
or fully priced tobacco products or paraphernalia (t-shirts, hats, etc) on campus.
• Funding or gifts from tobacco related companies are subject to institutional review to ensure their
compliance with the letter and spirit of this policy.
4. Tobacco Advertisements
• Advertisements for tobacco products or ads promoting tobacco use are prohibited in all of Tulane
University-run publications, including newspapers and magazines.
• All tobacco advertising in public spaces, such as billboards and signs in sports stadiums is prohibited.
Accepting revenue for advertising tobacco products is prohibited.
5. Tobacco Use Cessation Assistance
• The Student Health Center will provide smoking cessation clinical interventions for students and publicize
Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013 • 29
and promote on-line, Internet, and telephone hotline smoking cessation programs for faculty and staff.
• Tulane University will provide access to tobacco cessation aides at a discount to all faculty, staff and
students at the Student Health Center pharmacy.
6. Enforcement
Effective implementation of this tobacco policy depends upon the courtesy, respect, and cooperation of all
members of the Tulane University community. Complaints or disputes should be brought to the attention of the
University employee who has immediate responsibility for the workplace, event, or residents, or to his/her
supervisor. If satisfactory resolution is not reached, the Director of Environmental Health & Safety should be
consulted. Infractions of this policy may result in a warning or a citation.
• The Office of Housing and Residence Life is responsible for enforcing and implementing sanctions in
residence halls and other student residential facilities such as apartments.
• The Tulane University Office of Public Safety will work with the Deans and Provost’s Office and Human
Resources to enforce and implement sanctions on the remainder of the campus, but are not excluded from
enforcing the policy in student residences. Those found in violation of the policy shall receive a citation
and may be fined.
The Center for Wellness and Health Promotion, (504) 314-7400
Tulane University Medical Amnesty Program
Tulane University has the obligation to make mandatory medical referrals of students to the Substance Abuse
Clinic at the Student Health Center for incidents related to alcohol and other drug-related emergencies. The
potential for student conduct action by the University against the student in need of medical attention and/or
the student reporting the incident may act as a barrier to students getting the medical attention they need. In
order to alleviate the behavioral consequences associated with these alcohol and other drug- related emergencies, and increase the likelihood that students will get the medical attention they need, the University has
developed a Medical Amnesty Program.
The Medical Amnesty Program (MAP) represents the University’s commitment to increasing the likelihood that
community members will call TEMS for medical assistance when faced with an alcohol or other drug-related
emergency. Every student, as a part of the Tulane University community, has a responsibility for care. In
alcohol or drug related incidents, the primary concern of the University is the well-being, health, and safety
of students. The following offices collaborate to implement the MAP: TUPD, TEMS, Student Health Center,
Student Conduct, Office of Fraternity and Sorority Programs, Office of Wellness Services, Department of
Student Programs, and Department of Housing and Residence Life.
Medical Amnesty Program
In order for medical amnesty to be granted, a student or representative from an organization hosting an event
is expected to promptly call TEMS for medical assistance in an alcohol or other drug-related emergency.
There is no limit to the number of times a student can receive medical amnesty.
For the Person in Need of Medical Attention
A student transported by TEMS for alcohol or other drug-related emergency will be required to meet with a
clinician from the Substance Abuse Clinic at the Student Health Center. There is an assessment fee and the
student will have a required time frame by which the meeting must occur. The student must show up for the
meeting and comply with the recommendation(s) of the clinician or face additional penalties. In no case will
these additional penalties result in a student conduct case for the student.
30 • Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013
A student who is not transported by TEMS may be referred to the Substance Abuse Clinic at the Student
Health Center at the discretion of staff in the Office of Student Conduct or the Department of Housing and
Residence Life after reviewing the
report and meeting with the student.
The student will not be charged with a Code of Student Conduct violation related to the underage consumption of alcohol (III.A.6) or use of drugs (III.A.4) as a result of the incident. However, Medical Amnesty does
not preclude students from being charged with other violations of the Code of Student Conduct related to the
incident (i.e., property damage, assault, fighting).
There is no limit to the number of times a student can receive medical attention and be immune from the
Code of Student Conduct violations mentioned above. This does not preclude TUPD or New Orleans Police
Department (NOPD) from making an arrest for alcohol or drugs or charges being filed by NOPD if they are
at the scene. However, Tulane authorities will not notify NOPD of the incident as a result of a call for medical
attention unless NOPD’s assistance is needed to resolve criminal activity unrelated to the alcohol or drug use.
For the Caller
A student, who can be anonymous, calls for medical assistance on behalf of someone else will not be subject
to student conduct sanctions for the following Code of Student Conduct violations in relation to the incident:
• III.A.4 – Unauthorized use and/or possession of any controlled substance or illegal drug
• III.A.6 – Use, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages in violation of the Tulane Alcohol Beverage Policy
There is no limit to the number of times a student can call on behalf of someone else who needs medical
attention and be immune from the Code of Student
Conduct violations mentioned above. This does not preclude TUPD or New Orleans Police Department
(NOPD) from making an arrest for alcohol or drugs or charges being filed by NOPD if they are at the scene.
However, Tulane authorities will not notify NOPD of the incident as a result of a call for medical attention
unless NOPD’s assistance is needed to resolve criminal activity unrelated to the alcohol or drug use.
For the Organization
A representative of a student organization hosting an event is expected to call TEMS in an alcohol or other
drug-related emergency. This act of responsibility will mitigate potential student conduct sanctions against
the organization resulting from Code of Student Conduct violations that may have occurred at the time of the
incident. Likewise, failure to call for medical assistance in an alcohol or other drug- related emergency will be
considered an “aggravating circumstance” and may impact the sanction levied against the organization if a
violation of the Code of Student Conduct has occurred (i.e., property damage, assault, fighting).
For non fraternal organizations – Appropriate event management and participation in responsible host
training will be taken into consideration when potential student conduct sanctions against the organization is
considered by ASB or the Office of Student Conduct.
For fraternities and sororities – Appropriate event management and adherence to established guidelines will
be taken into consideration when potential student conduct sanctions against the organization is considered
by the IFC or Panhellenic Conduct Boards (i.e., registered event, no common sources).
FAQs About Medical Amnesty
What is an alcohol or drug-related emergency?
A drug or alcohol related emergency is defined as any person whose health status is potentially at risk due to
the intake of drugs or alcohol. This includes but is not limited to excessive vomiting, seizures, disorientation, or
Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013 • 31
unresponsiveness.
Does this mean that Tulane University encourages students to drink?
No. Medical Amnesty recognizes that students can make irresponsible choices about the use of alcohol
and other drugs and that if something goes wrong as a result of that irresponsibility the student can get the
required medical emergency medical attention without fear of “getting in trouble” or the incident appearing
on his or her conduct record.
Some students are afraid to call TEMS because they will get in trouble. How does this policy alleviate this?
The Medical Amnesty Program is designed to remove any behavioral consequences associated with an
alcohol or drug-related emergency from the student needing medical attention and the person who makes the
call. A conduct file is not created when the Medical Amnesty Protocol is followed. However, a student will still
be required to complete an evaluation at the Substance Abuse Clinic at the Student Health Center as a follow-up to the incident. While this may be considered getting “in trouble” by some students, Tulane University is
committed to health and safety of students, which is why there is a required assessment in the Student Health
Center. Doing absolutely no follow-up with a student after an alcohol or drug-related emergency would be
irresponsible on the part of the University.
Then TEMS calls really aren’t confidential if a student is required to go to the Student Health Center?
TEMS calls are confidential in terms of the diagnosis and treatment given to students in need of medical assistance. However, TUPD and other witnesses are often present while TEMS is doing its work and it is sometimes
easy to tell that a student is severely intoxicated or otherwise impaired. If TUPD is on the scene a report is
written based on what the officer observes not from TEMS as the treatment is confidential. TEMS calls are
confidential yet the presence of TUPD or other witnesses may comprise confidentiality.
Why are organizations not provided the same level of amnesty as an individual?
Student organizations are held to higher standards because of the guidelines associated with their registration
and that several organizations have governing boards or national organizations to whom they are also
accountable. There may also be other factors associated with the event that need to be investigated which is
why there is no automatic amnesty for organizations.
Are students really guaranteed that there will be no student conduct action?
Yes. Even if students fail to attend the mandatory evaluation other penalties will be levied until the student
meets with a clinician at the Student Health Center including but not limited to fines, blocked registration,
or parental notification. The University wants to separate actions associated with a violation of the Code of
Student Conduct from actions associated with student health and safety. There will be no student conduct file
and this will not impede students from enrolling in graduate or professional schools in the future.
What is the jurisdiction of this policy?
This policy applies to students who are transported by TEMS on or off campus. A student who requires
medical assistance and is transported by NOPD or NOHD for an alcohol or other drug-related emergency
off-campus is also eligible for medical amnesty.
Will my parents find out?
As a general rule, your parents will not be notified. However, your parents may be notified if your alcohol or
drug-related emergency is life threatening and/or you fail to meet with a clinician in the Student Health Center
or follow through with his or her recommendation(s).
What kind of assessment do I need to complete at the Student Health Center?
Students will undergo an initial assessment that includes, but is not limited to, a clinical interview, a review of
the alcohol or other drug-related emergency, and an assessment instrument such as the Alcohol Use Disorders
32 • Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013
Identification Test (AUDIT) and Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST). Based on the findings from this initial
assessment, recommendations will be made for the appropriate level of intervention.
Do the results of the meeting at the Student Health Center become part of my medical records?
Yes. However, records maintained by clinicians are subject to patient-client confidentiality. The results of
the assessment or the content of the conversation with a clinician will not be shared with anyone. The only
information that will be shared with the referral source (i.e. Student Affairs or HRL) will be confirmation that the
student attended the session and that he/she followed through with any recommendations that were made.
Adopted: 01/09/2007
Reviewed & modified: 01/22/2008
Reviewed & modified: 02/26/2009
Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013 • 33
34 • Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies and Procedures 2012–2013