Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Tobacco Policy: Appendix A

DEFINITIONS

When used in this policy, the following definitions apply:

Alcohol means ethyl alcohol, hydrated oxide of ethyl, or spirit of wine from whatever source or by whatever processes produced.

Alcohol abuse means the excessive use of alcohol in a manner that interferes, but not chronically, with (1) physical or psychological functioning; (2) social adaptation; (3) educational performance; and (4) occupational functioning.

Controlled substance means a controlled substance in schedules I through V of Section 202 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. s. 812) or whose possession, sale, or delivery results in criminal sanctions under New York State Law. In general, this includes all prescription drugs, as well as those substances for which there is no generally accepted medical use (e.g. heroin, LSD, etc.), and substances that possess a chemical structure similar to that of a controlled substance (e.g. designer drugs). This term does not include alcohol.

Drugs refers to any controlled or other substance, other than food, that is capable of altering an individual’s mood, perception, pain level, or judgment.

Early intervention means services identifying individuals or groups who are beginning to exhibit problems with their own use or a significant other’s use of alcohol and other drugs, and motivate them to seek help.

Educational messages provide accurate alcohol, tobacco, and other drug information about the health risks associated with alcohol and drug use, and about resources available to prevent use and abuse.

High risk means activities where any alcohol use is unsafe, including many aspects of daily life requiring alertness and coordination, particularly work and recreational activities. Other risky situations include times when physical condition is already impaired by some other cause, such as depression, emotional stress, fatigue, or medication.

Illegal drug or chemical substance is any drug or chemical substance, the use, the sale, or possession of which is illegal under any state or federal law, or one which is legally obtainable but has not been legally obtained. The term includes prescribed drugs not legally obtained and prescribed drugs not being used for prescribed purposes.

Low risk is an umbrella term that covers both abstinence and other quantities and frequencies not associated with high risk. Low risk is intended to replace the word moderation, which is typically used when referring to the consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Officially representing the University is when one’s activities involve active management, physical or administrative oversight, financial support, and/or release time by the University. Students officially represent the University when: (1) they are traveling on University money (including student fees), (2) they are on the job (in positions paid for by University accounts and student fees), and/or (3) they use their titles or elected positions in University.

Prevention programs provide accurate alcohol, tobacco, and other drug information; promote health-enhancing life skills; support positive alternatives to activities that have traditionally focused on alcohol and use; change social policies and community norms. They are aimed at eliciting long- term change in behavior and are designed to change the life course of its participants, offer opportunities, or provide support.

Policy is a formal, written statement of the University’s position on the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, setting forth regulations, specific guidelines, and rules to carry out the policy intent.

University-sponsored event is an activity that has active management, or financial, physical, or administrative involvement or oversight by the University.