Expectations for Students
Prohibiting the Unlawful Possession, Use or Distribution of Illegal Drugs and Alcohol
Rhode Island College supports the laws of the State of Rhode Island regarding the licensing, distribution and consumption of alcoholic beverages; as well as state and federal laws regarding the possession, use, sale, or transfer of illegal drugs and controlled substances. It is the responsibility of all members of the College community to abide by those laws.
Possession, use or distribution of alcohol and/or illegal drugs, including the use of prescription pharmaceuticals for other than their intended use, on campus or in any College-owned or controlled vehicle is prohibited. This policy applies to all campus facilities, including residence halls, and at all student activities and events presented on campus by a College-sponsored or a non-sponsored host. The Vice President of Administration and Finance may grant exceptions when alcohol is an intended addition to a meal (e.g., a champagne toast at a reception). At all such scheduled events, it is required that nonalcoholic beverages also be served. No mention of alcohol is to be included in any publicity or promotion of said events.
Disciplinary Sanctions on Students and Employees for Violations of Drug and Alcohol Standards of Conduct
Rhode Island College students and employees are expected to comply with all federal, state and local laws pertaining to illegal drugs and alcohol. The illegal possession, manufacture, use, provision, sale or distribution of illegal drugs and/or alcohol is prohibited by the College. Students and employees found responsible for violating the College’s prohibitions regarding illegal drugs or alcohol will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion or termination of employment from the College, and referral for prosecution. A disciplinary sanction may include the completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program.
Suspension
Students convicted under federal or state law for the sale or possession of drugs may have their federal financial aid eligibility suspended. This includes but is not limited to all federal grants, loans and federal work study programs.
Local, State and Federal Laws and Sanctions Related to Illegal Drugs and Alcohol
The possession, use or distribution of illegal drugs and alcohol is a violation of federal, state and/or local laws. Penalties for violating these laws vary according to the particular facts and circumstance of each case. However, the penalties may include but not be limited to:
- Violations with respect to controlled substances (RIGL 21-28-4.01): Imprisonment of one year to thirty (30) years and/or a $3,000 to $100,000 fine.
- Possession of alcohol by a minor (RIGL 3-8-10): A fine of $150 to $950 and possible community service and/or suspension of driver’s license.
- Purchasing alcohol for, or furnishing alcohol to, a minor (RIGL 3-8-11.1,11.2): Imprisonment of six months to three years and/or a fine of $350 to $2,500.
- Misrepresentation of age (RIGL 3-8-6): A fine of $100 to $1,000 and possible community service and/or suspension of driver's license.
- Federal law violations
