Drug and Alcohol Policy

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is a drug-free school and complies with the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1990. The Drug Free School and Communities Act of 1989 requires institutions of higher education to adopt and implement programs to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol. Information concerning these programs must be distributed to students annually. For information regarding these policies please refer to the following: Drug Free School and Communities Act provided by the Dean of Students at www.utrgv.edu/dos.

UTRGV is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for the campus community. Alcohol and other drugs should not interfere with the university’s educational mission. All UTRGV students, faculty members, staff members, administrators and visitors are subject to local state and federal laws regarding the unlawful possession, distribution, or use of alcohol or illegal drugs.

The following university policies can be found in the UTRGV Handbook of Operating Procedures. The possession, transportation, and/or consumption of alcohol by individuals less than 21 years of age is strictly prohibited. University police officers enforce laws regulating the use of alcoholic beverages and underage drinking with court appearance citations, referral to the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities and/or arrest. Alcoholic beverages may not be consumed or possessed in public areas of the university. Additional policies regarding alcohol apply at campus housing areas. If a student is found responsible for violating the alcohol policies, sanctions range from educational programs to expulsion. In addition, according to the UTRGV Student Code of Conduct the use, manufacture, possession, sale, or distribution on the campus of the sub-stances defined and regulated under Chapters 481, 484 and 485 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, except as may be allowed by the provisions of such articles. If a student is found responsible of the illegal use, possession, or sale of a drug or narcotic on campus, the minimum penalty shall be suspension from the institution for a specified period of time; and/or suspension of rights and privileges.