College Procedure Number/Title:

The board of trustees of Howard Community College directs the college to provide a drug-free, healthy, safe and secure educational environment.  Employees are expected and required to be in appropriate mental and physical condition for work.  Students are expected to contribute to the desired environment by conducting themselves within the guidelines of the student code of conduct as detailed in the Student Handbook.

The unlawful manufacture, distribution, sale, possession, or use of illicit drugs and the illegal use of alcohol as a part of any Howard Community College activity whether on or off college premises is absolutely prohibited, in accordance with all applicable federal, state and local laws.

Violations of this policy by employees or students will result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal, consistent with normal college policy and procedures.  In addition, any violations may have legal consequences consistent with local, state and federal law.  The college will cooperate with appropriate health and law enforcement agencies.

The college recognizes drug or alcohol abuse as an illness and a major health problem.  The college also recognizes drug or alcohol abuse as a potential safety and security problem.  Students and employees needing help in dealing with such problems are encouraged to use community or campus assistance programs.  Voluntary participation in an assistance program will not jeopardize continued employment or enrollment at the college and will not be noted in any personnel or student record provided that job performance or behavior is consistent with established standards.  However, voluntary participation in an assistance program will not prevent disciplinary action for violation of the policy described here.

Employees, as a condition of employment, must abide by the terms of this policy and report any crimes for which they have been convicted under a criminal drug statute for violations occurring on or off college premises.  Reports of convictions must be made within five days after the conviction.

Effective Date:  6/10/1992