Prohibition of Illicit Drugs and Alcohol on Campus:
The possession, sale, manufacture, or distribution of controlled substances or drug paraphernalia is illegal under state and federal law and strictly enforced by the College Office of Security and Safety. Violators are subject to disciplinary action and possible criminal prosecution.
The consumption, possession, or presence of alcohol, cannabis, or controlled substances is prohibited in all campus areas without prior College approval. Violations by individuals, organizations, or groups may result in disciplinary sanctions.
Sanctions for Violating the Drug-Free Campus Policy:
Students violating the College’s drug-free campus policy may face disciplinary actions, which can include:
- Expulsion
- Termination of on-campus employment
- Referral to law enforcement
- Mandatory participation in an approved assistance program
Cooperation with Law Enforcement:
The College cooperates fully with law enforcement agencies regarding the use, possession, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol. Students apprehended for such offenses will not receive protection or legal assistance from the College and may also face disciplinary action.
Prohibited Substances and Paraphernalia:
The sale, use, possession, manufacture, or distribution of prohibited drugs, controlled substances, and paraphernalia is forbidden on College property. This includes:
- Implements used for drug cultivation, manufacture, or concealment
- Cannabis products such as marijuana, vapes, DABS, bowls, or bongs
- Edible cannabis products like candies or brownies
Medical cannabis is prohibited in all SUNY-owned or operated accommodations per New York Department of Health regulations (10 NYCRR 1004.18) unless modified by the New York State Office of Cannabis Management.
Student and Employee Responsibilities:
Preventing the unlawful possession, use, and distribution of drugs and alcohol is a shared responsibility. Anonymous reports can be made by calling the toll-free hotline: 1-800-GIVE-TIP. All reports are confidential.
Substance Abuse Prevention and Education:
The College Counseling Division offers a substance abuse workshop each semester. A Prevention Specialist is available for educational sessions and individual or group counseling. Students, including student-athletes, suspected of possessing alcohol or illicit substances must participate in prevention services.
Off-Campus Activities:
College regulations extend to sponsored off-campus activities, including field trips and College-owned or chartered vehicles.
Exceptions: Lawful alcohol consumption provided by licensed vendors on their premises is exempt from this policy.
Annual Notice to Students and Employees
In compliance with Section 1213 of the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (P.L. 101-226), Columbia-Greene Community College has implemented a program to prevent illicit drug use and alcohol abuse by students and employees. This program includes:
Annual Distribution: Each year, the College provides all students and employees with:
- Standards of Conduct: Guidelines prohibiting the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol on College property or during College activities.
- Legal Sanctions: Information on legal consequences under local, state, and federal laws for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol.
- Health Risks: Descriptions of health risks linked to illicit drug use and alcohol abuse.
- Support Resources: Details on available counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation programs for students and employees.
- Disciplinary Sanctions: Notice that the College may impose sanctions for violations of conduct standards, including expulsion, termination of employment, and legal referral.
Biennial Review: Every two years, the College conducts a review to:
- Assess Program Effectiveness: Evaluate program success and implement changes as needed.
- Ensure Consistent Enforcement: Confirm consistent application of disciplinary sanctions to maintain conduct standards.
Legal Implications:
Under New York Penal Law, the unlawful possession or sale of controlled substances carries severe penalties, which vary based on the substance type and amount:
- Class A Misdemeanor: Possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree is punishable by up to one year in jail.
- Gifted Drugs: Giving drugs as a gift is treated the same as selling under New York law.
- Misdemeanor: Crimes punishable by imprisonment for 15 days to one year.
- Felony: Crimes punishable by imprisonment for more than one year.
Unlawful Possession of Alcohol
Since January 1, 1990, New York State law prohibits individuals under 21 from possessing alcoholic beverages with the intent to consume. Violations may result in court summons and penalties such as fines, mandatory alcohol education programs, and community service.
Local Resources
Twin Counties Recovery Services, Inc.
Greene County Clinic
428 West Main St., Catskill, NY 12414
Phone: (518) 943-2036
Email: reneep@twincountyrecoveryservices.org
Columbia County Clinic
350 Power Ave, Hudson, NY 12534
Phone: (518) 828-9300
Email: anabellp@twincountyrecoveryservices.org
Impaired Driver Program (IDP): Columbia and Greene Counties
47 North 5th St, Hudson, NY 12534
Phone: (518) 697-6181