Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy

Saginaw Valley State University strives to offer members of the University community the same rights as those afforded to members of the larger community. All members of the University community are responsible for making decisions about their behavior in accordance with Michigan law and University regulations.

The Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, Subtitle D, Section 5152, and the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, PL No. 101-226, require that Saginaw Valley State University maintain an environment free from the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of controlled substances and/or alcohol. This policy, Concerning the Use of Alcohol and Other Drugs (this “Policy”), applies to all activities on University property, University-sponsored events, and may extend to off-campus activities and behaviors. Any violation of the Policy constitutes a violation of the SVSU Code of Student Conduct and workplace rules. Such violations may result in disciplinary action by both the University and civil authorities.

This Policy is written as evidence of Saginaw Valley State University’s commitment to its students by:

• Encouraging a campus environment where healthy choices are made;
• Working to prevent alcohol and other drug abuse;
• Accepting responsibility for one's own choices and behavior;
• Encouraging alcohol-free programs;
• Supporting and empowering those who choose responsibly not to use alcohol; and
• Enforcing University rules and regulations, and federal, state, and local laws that govern alcohol and other drug use.

Alcohol and Drug-Related Incidents Requiring Medical Attention

In the case of alcohol intoxication, alcohol poisoning, drug overdose, or other alcohol or drug-related medical emergencies, the primary concern is the health and safety of the individual(s) involved. Students are strongly encouraged to seek immediate medical assistance for themselves or their peers in the case of an alcohol or other drug-related medical emergency. Students for whom medical assistance is sought, and those who seek medical assistance for themselves or for others, for alcohol or other drug-related medical emergencies, will not be subject to University discipline for the sole violation of using or possessing alcohol or drugs. Such students may, however, be referred to University education and support programs or community referrals and may be subject to disciplinary action when other University rules or policies have been violated. Further, students remain subject to local, state, and/or federal laws concerning the use of alcohol and/or other drugs, and may be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.

An individual, for whom emergency medical assistance is sought due to an alcohol or drug-related condition, is financially responsible for all costs of their medical care, including ambulance and/or hospitalization.

Disciplinary Process

Students accused of behavior in violation of this Policy are subject to the disciplinary process and procedures outlined in the SVSU Code of Student Conduct and this Policy. In the event a student is notified of a violation of this Policy, the student must contact the designated student conduct officer within two (class) days of notification. A screening appointment will then be scheduled within the next five (class) days, and a determination of the appropriate sanction(s) will be completed within the following two weeks, when school is in session.

Parental Notification

In October of 1998, Congress passed an amendment to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) which allows an institution of higher education to disclose to parents or legal guardians of a student, information involving a violation of federal, state, local law or a rule or policy of the institution governing the use or possession of alcohol and/or other drugs, if the student is under the age of 21 and the institution has determined that a disciplinary violation occurred. In response to alcohol-related tragedies in the State of Michigan and across the country, SVSU’s policy is to inform parents or guardians of a student under the age of 21 when the student is found responsible for a violation of this Policy.

Risks Related to Alcohol and Other Drugs

Alcohol and other drug use can start as casual or social use and progress into abuse and dependence. The abuse of alcohol and other drugs can diminish the personal attainment of intellectual, social, physical, and moral growth and development.

Health Risks Associated with the Use of Illicit Drugs and Alcohol

For current and detailed information regarding the Health Risks Associated with the Use of Illicit Drugs and Alcohol, please visit:

National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institute on Drug Abuse

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

Campus Resources

• Mental Health and Wellness, 112 Curtiss Hall, 989-964-7078
  • Protocol 24/7 SVSU Crisis Hotline, 989-964-7078 (Press 0)
• Residential Life, 114 Curtiss Hall, 989-964-4410
• Student Conduct Programs, 114 Curtiss Hall, 989-964-2220
• Student Wellness Program, 105 Doan Center, 989-964-4658
• University Health Center, 2970 Pierce Road, 989-583-0285
• University Police, South Campus Complex A, 989-964-4141

Community Resources

Bay County

• Access Alliance of MI, 800-448-5498 or 989-497-1302
• Alcoholics Anonymous 24-Hour Help Line, 989-894-1949
• Access Alliance for Bay-Arenac, which is 989-497-1302

Midland County

• Alcoholics Anonymous 24-Hour Help Line, 989-698-2975
• Alcoholics Anonymous Website, www.midlandaa.org
• Community Mental Health for Central Michigan, 800-317-0708 or 989-772-5938

Saginaw County

• Saginaw County Mental Health Authority, Substance Abuse, 989-797-3559
• Alcoholics Anonymous 24-Hour Help Line, 989-776-1241
• Alcoholics Anonymous Website, www.saginawaa.org
• Narcotics Anonymous 24-Hour Help Line, 800-230-4085
• Narcotics Anonymous Website, www.michigan-na.org/

Tuscola County

• Alcoholics Anonymous Website, www.tauc.ws, 989-670-4996

Alcohol - FAQs

Provisions Specifically Relating to Alcohol

University Alcohol-Related Regulations

• Unauthorized possession, use, manufacture, distribution, or sale of alcoholic beverages on University property is forbidden.
• All provisions of state law pertaining to possession and use of alcohol, furnishing of alcoholic beverages to minors, and falsification of an I.D. for the purchase of alcoholic beverages will be enforced.
• Furnishing alcohol to an obviously or visibly intoxicated person, regardless of age, is prohibited.
• Kegs of any size or any common source of alcohol beverage are not permitted on campus without University approval.
• Consumption of alcohol by those 21 years of age or older is permitted in University Housing facilities only in accordance with provisions outlined in "Additional Resident Student Alcohol Policy Provisions."
• Possession of alcohol containers by unauthorized individuals, whether the containers hold an alcoholic beverage or not, may be considered acceptable evidence of consumption of alcohol.
• Alcoholic beverages are not permitted at athletic events, concerts, or any other event open to the campus community or general public, without prior authorization from the University.
• Student organization funds may not be used for the purchase of alcoholic beverages.
• Disruptive behavior and/or damage related to the consumption of alcohol are prohibited.
• Students are expected to exercise good judgment and immediately report violations of this Policy; failure to do so may be deemed a violation of this Policy.
• Driving while under the influence of alcohol or in possession of alcohol if under the age of 21 is prohibited.

Violations of any of the above-listed regulations will constitute a violation of this Policy and the SVSU Code of Student Conduct.

Alcoholic Beverage Policy for Approved University Student Functions

The consumption of alcohol by those 21 years of age and older is permitted during an approved University function; provided, however, that all applicable provisions of this Policy concerning the use of alcohol remain in effect. Guidelines are available within the SVSU Operations Manual: General Operations 3.1-3 Special Event Alcohol Guidelines.

• Consumption of alcohol is permitted by those 21 years of age or older on campus during an approved University function.
• Organizations must receive University approval to have alcohol served at an approved University function.
• Alcohol must only be served by University Dining Services personnel at approved University functions.
• Attendees at an approved University function are not permitted to supply their own alcoholic beverages.
• Advertising in University publications or publicized notice on or off campus of the availability of alcoholic beverages at any event sponsored by a University group or individual is prohibited.

Additional Resident Student Alcohol Policy Provisions

Saginaw Valley State University maintains an environment free from the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of controlled substances and/or alcohol. Possession of alcohol containers, while in a facility/living unit, regardless of whether the container holds alcohol, is not permitted.

Those who are 21 years of age or older are permitted to possess and consume alcohol in accordance with this Policy, including the following behavioral rules and regulations:

• Possession of alcohol or alcohol containers outside living units is not permitted, regardless of age.
• However, alcoholic beverages in factory sealed containers may be transported by individuals (21 years or older) from off campus directly to approved residences.
• Common sources of alcohol (e.g., kegs, trash cans, etc.) or quantities of alcohol (including empty containers) determined to be excessive by University personnel are not permitted.
• Residents are responsible for their guests’ behavior and may be charged through the disciplinary process for the actions of guests.
• Social events (parties, large gatherings, etc.) may be terminated at any time at the discretion of University staff.

The following limits have been established regarding the amounts and types of alcoholic beverages (as defined in the Michigan Liquor Control Code and related laws, rules, and regulations) each assigned resident who is 21 years of age or older, and behaves in accordance with this Policy, University rules and regulations, and federal, state, and local laws; may possess:

• 144 ounces of beer (equivalent to 12, 12-ounce cans of beer) and 755 ml of wine (the equivalent of one average-size bottle of wine); OR
• 144 ounces of beer (equivalent to 12, 12-ounce cans of beer) and 755 ml of liquor (the equivalent of one fifth); OR
• 755 ml of wine (equivalent to one average-size bottle of wine) and 755 ml of liquor (the equivalent of one fifth): OR
• 288 ounces of beer (equivalent to 24, 12-ounce cans of beer); OR
• 1510 ml of wine (equivalent to two average-size bottles of wine).

All other alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Off-campus Activities

Although the University accepts no responsibility for the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of controlled substances and/or alcohol at off-campus functions sponsored or attended by students or University-related organizations or individuals, the University’s expectations and standards for its students may extend to activities and behavior off-campus.

All persons planning or attending such an off-campus activity should be aware of the alcoholic beverage and other laws in that situation. Each person participating in the activity assumes responsibility for his or her own actions. Students attending off-campus social functions sponsored or hosted by students or University-related organizations or individuals are subject to all applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as University rules and regulations, and violations may result in disciplinary action by the University and/or civil authorities.

Alcohol Disciplinary Sanctions

A student who is determined to have violated this policy for an alcohol-related infraction is subject to the sanctions outlined in SVSU’s Code of Student Conduct, as well as the sanctions described below. In addition, such students are subject to prosecution and punishment under federal, state, and local laws.

The following table is a general summary of the range of possible University alcohol-related sanctions. Sanctions are cumulative and may be enhanced based on past disciplinary records, the severity of behavior, and/or the impact of the violation upon the community. There may be circumstances that are cause for exception. Penalties may include appropriate developmental sanctions or disciplinary restrictions.

Sanctions will reflect both the degree and the number of offenses of a particular student. In certain situations, sanctions, including, but not limited to, the following, may be imposed, in addition to the standard sanctions listed in the table above:

• Violators who are student athletes should be aware that the Athletic Director will be notified in the instance of an alcohol-related violation, and they are encouraged to immediately communicate with their coach in the event of an incident.
• Sanctions involving removal from University housing or suspension from the University may require the completion of specific criteria before re-enrollment.

State and Township Law: State and Local Law and Related Sanctions

Civil (Dram Shop) Liability

Students should also be aware that civil liability may be incurred when their sale or furnishing of, or assistance in procuring alcoholic beverages to an intoxicated person is found to have caused or contributed to property damage, personal injury, or death of a person. Such liability may arise independently of any University sanctions or prosecution under local, state, or federal law.

Provisions Specifically Relating to Other Drugs

University Drug-Related Regulations

The following University regulations govern the possession, use, manufacture, sale, or distribution of controlled substances (as defined by the Michigan Public Health Code):

• Any student unlawfully using controlled substances, possessing controlled substances or drug paraphernalia, selling or otherwise distributing controlled substances, is subject to discipline under the Code of Student Conduct.
• The use of prescription drugs or over-the-counter substances, such as inhalants or herbals, in any way other than the intended or appropriate use, may be interpreted as a violation under this Policy.
• The odor of a controlled substance may constitute a violation of this Policy.
• Evidence of a drug-related violation of this Policy will be reported promptly to the University Police.
• Criminal and civil penalties imposed under federal, state, and local laws for controlled substance violations can be severe and can include imprisonment.
• Drug violations, of which students are convicted, may affect their eligibility for financial aid.
• Violations of drug regulations may result in disciplinary action by both the University and civil/criminal justice systems.
• The University will pursue prosecution of students utilizing drugs in the execution of a crime or civil infraction.
• Residents are responsible for the guests’ behavior and may be charged through the disciplinary process for the actions of guests who violate this Policy.

Medical Marijuana and Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act

The use, possession, storage, or cultivation of marijuana in any form and for any purpose is prohibited at Saginaw Valley State University. Although the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act of 2008 (the “MMMA”) permits qualified patients with specific medical conditions and their primary caregivers to use and possess marijuana, the MMMA conflicts with federal laws. Additionally, the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act also conflicts with federal laws. Because the University receives federal funding and is subject to the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, the use, possession, storage or cultivation of marijuana by anyone while on SVSU property, regardless of whether they are a licensed/registered patient or caregiver under the MMMA or of legal age, is a violation of this Policy and, therefore, a violation of SVSU’s Code of Student Conduct.

Drug Disciplinary Sanctions

A student who is determined to have violated this Policy for a drug-related infraction is subject to the sanctions outlined in SVSU’s Code of Student Conduct, as well as the sanctions described below. In addition, such students are subject to prosecution and punishment under federal, state, and local laws.

The following tables are a general summary of the range of possible University drug-related sanctions. Sanctions are cumulative and may be enhanced based on past disciplinary records, the severity of behavior, and/or the impact of the violation upon the community. There may be circumstances that are cause for exception. Penalties will reflect the degree of the drug-related violation and may include appropriate developmental sanctions or disciplinary restrictions, and in certain situations, a student may be expelled upon the first occurrence of a drug-related violation of this Policy.

Ranges of Sanctions for Students Violating Drug (Marijuana) Policy

Ranges of Sanctions for Students Violating Drug Policy Other Than Marijuana

Sanctions reflect both the degree and the number of offenses of a particular student. In certain situations, additional sanctions, including, but not limited to the following, may be imposed in addition to the standard sanctions listed in the table above:

• Violators who are student athletes should be aware that the Athletic Director will be notified in the instance of a drug-related violation, and are encouraged to immediately communicate with his/her coach in the event of an incident.
• Sanctions involving removal from University housing or suspension from the University may require the completion of specific criteria before re-enrollment.

Federal Penalties and Sanctions for Illegal Trafficking and Possession of a Controlled Substance

For current and detailed information regarding Federal Drug Trafficking Penalties, please visit The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration:

For detailed information: U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration

Michigan Compiled Laws, Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (MCL 333.27951):

Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act

Michigan State Police Legal Update:

For current Michigan legal updates: Michigan State Police Legal Update

5/6/22

6/15/26 Approved by Board of Control