Drug Free Schools and Communities Act
Drug Free schools and Communities Act Students at Olin College must be aware that their behavior with respect to alcoholic beverages is constrained by two sets of rules: Massachusetts state law and the college’s own policies which reflect its concern for the health and well-being of its students. The alcohol and drug policies are set forth in the Non-Academic Policies section of the handbook.
Persons who violate the college’s policy regarding alcohol or other drugs are subject to appropriate disciplinary action, counseling, probation, suspension, dismissal and referral to proper law enforcement authorities for prosecution. Massachusetts state law subjects an individual to fines ranging from $300 to $1,000, loss of driver’s license and/or imprisonment for the following acts:
- Sale or delivery of alcohol to anyone under 21 years of age;
- Possession, purchase, delivery, or transportation of alcohol by anyone under 21 years of age; and
- Misrepresentation or falsification of identification in order to purchase alcohol.
The law further states that anyone who wishes to purchase alcohol must show, upon request, a valid Massachusetts driver’s license indicating that he or she is 21 years of age or older.
The Drug Free Schools and Communities Act also requires that a description of health risks associated with drug use and alcohol abuse be distributed to Olin students. Potential health risks resulting from alcohol and drug abuse include but are not limited to the following:
- Aggressive behavior
- Brain damage
- Bronchitis
- Cancer of the esophagus
- Cirrhosis of the liver
- Delirium tremors
- Fluctuating moods and emotions
- Heart attack
- Hepatitis
- Impotency
- Irritability
- Malnutrition
- Meningitis
- Pancreatitis
- Physical dependence
- Pneumonia
- Pregnancy complications
- Relationship problems
- Respiratory arrest
- Sleep problems
- Ulcers
Resources are available to assist Olin students in understanding and dealing with drug and alcohol abuse. The National Institute on Drug Abuse provides a confidential information and referral line that directs callers to cocaine abuse treatment centers in the local community. Contact Health Services in Hollister Hall for free materials on drug use.
See non-academic policies of this Handbook for college policies on alcohol and other drugs. See the Honor Code section of this Handbook for the range of possible sanctions.