Florida International University is committed to providing a safe work and educational environment and to fostering the well-being and health of its students and employees. This commitment is jeopardized when any student or employee of Florida International University unlawfully or inappropriately possesses, uses, distributes or sells illegal drugs or alcohol on University premises or at any University sponsored or related activity.  

The goal of this Policy is to balance our respect for an individual’s rights with the need to maintain a safe, productive, and drug free environment. The intent of this policy is to send a clear message that illegal drugs and alcohol abuse are incompatible with studying or working at Florida International University, and to offer a helping hand to those who may need it.

Therefore:

1. It is a violation of this Policy for any person to possess, sell, trade, distribute or offer for sale illegal drugs or to otherwise engage in the use of illegal drugs on campus or within a 200 foot perimeter of University owned, leased, operated or controlled property.

 2. It is a violation of this Policy for anyone to report to classes, work or related assignments “under the influence” of illegal drugs or alcohol.

  3. It is a violation of this Policy for anyone to use prescription drugs illegally. The legal use of prescription drugs with known potential to impair personal safety should be reported to supervisors or an appropriate University representatives.

Violations of this Policy by any student or employee of Florida International University shall constitute grounds for evaluation and/or treatment for drug/alcohol abuse, for disciplinary action and/or criminal sanction.

  a   Students: Disciplinary actions may range from letters of reprimand up to and including expulsion from the University. Such actions shall be in accordance with the applicable “Standards of Student Conduct” and University policies and procedures.

  b   Employees: Disciplinary action may include mandatory referral to the Office of Employee Assistance (OEA) for assessment, letters of reprimand, and progressive disciplinary procedures, up to and including termination.

Students and employees  may seek review of any disciplinary actions in accordance with applicable procedures.

In compliance with Federal Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Regulations, Florida International University shall provide annual notification to students and employees regarding this Policy and its alcohol and substance abuse awareness, prevention and rehabilitation programs.

Further, the FIU Substance Abuse Task Force shall conduct biennial reviews of such programs in order to assure their continued conformance with the stated goal and intent of this Policy and the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Regulations.  

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