Purdue Regulations

What Purdue University regulations address alcohol and other drugs?

University regulations state that the use, possession, or distribution of narcotics or dangerous drugs is prohibited, except as expressly permitted by the laws of the state of Indiana.

In addition, the use, possession, or distribution of "medical marijuana" in Purdue University residence halls, on other areas of the Purdue University campus, or otherwise is also prohibited even in the instance where the "medical marijuana" was legally prescribed in another state and/or country.

University regulations generally prohibit the personal possession or use of alcoholic beverages in or on University property, regardless of the person's age. However, those 21 years of age and older may consume alcoholic beverages on University property in the following settings:

  • Family apartments and single graduate residences
  • Registered occupants of guest rooms in the Union Club
  • Sporting events in specially designated areas
  • Purdue Memorial Union 1869 Tap Room
  • Other University sanctioned events

Possession, consumption, distribution, and sale of alcoholic beverages are permitted, with advance approval by the Executive Vice President and Treasurer or his/her designee, in areas designated by the University and under the supervision of the Purdue Memorial Union or the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, subject to compliance with all University regulations and applicable Indiana state laws.

Members of recognized fraternities, sororities, and cooperative housing organizations are subject to the following conditions concerning possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages on the premises of their houses:

  • Under no circumstances may alcoholic beverages be sold
  • Alcoholic beverages may not be available at any event where an admission fee is charged
  • Alcoholic beverages may not be consumed outside the house
  • Alcoholic beverages and containers for alcoholic beverages may not be displayed outside the house
  • Alcoholic beverages may not be provided or consumed at an open event
  • All sponsoring organizations are equally responsible for open and closed events and for compliance with University regulations and applicable Indiana state laws
  • Violations of any of these conditions may result in University action.

For more information, consult Student Regulations. Copies are available at the Office of the Dean of Students, Schleman Hall of Student Services (formerly Recitation), 2nd floor, 656 Oval Drive , West Lafayette, IN 47907-2050, Phone: (765) 494-1747 V/TTY: (765) 496-1343, Fax: (765) 496-1550.

Purdue University Residence Halls also have disciplinary codes that make alcohol and other drug use a violation.

What happens to students who violate University regulations regarding the use of alcohol and other drugs?

Any student suspected of being in violation of alcohol and other drug regulations may be subject to disciplinary proceedings conducted by representatives of the Office of the Dean of Students. Students who are found responsible for a violation of Student Regulations may be subject to disciplinary penalties. These penalties can include expulsion, suspension, probated suspension, disciplinary probation, warning and/or educational sanctions (ex. community service and referral for alcohol and/or drug assessments).

NOTE: When appropriate, referral by police for prosecution under local, state, and federal laws may occur.

If a student is not on Purdue University property and is caught violating a local, state, or federal law regarding the use of alcohol and other drugs, could he/she be subject to University disciplinary action?

Indiana state law allows the University to investigate and act on any suspicion of violation of local, state, or federal law. The University may also investigate and take action in incidents occurring in states other than Indiana.

What happens if a student or someone they know seeks help for student intoxication and/or alcohol poisoning?

In fall 2011, Purdue implemented a new policy: PurdueCARES, Medical Amnesty for Student Intoxication.

In cases of student intoxication and/or alcohol poisoning that occur on the West Lafayette campus, on the premises of a Recognized Student Organization or at a function sponsored by a Recognized Student Organization, the intoxicated student, as well as the student(s) seeking medical attention on the intoxicated student's behalf, will be exempt from Disciplinary Sanctions related to alcohol consumption.

In circumstances involving a Recognized Student Organization, the willingness of the members involved in seeking medical assistance for a member or guest will be viewed as a mitigating factor in the review process for the Recognized Student Organization for any possible violations.

REASON FOR THIS POLICY

The primary concern of Purdue University in all cases, including those cases of intoxication and/or alcohol poisoning, is the health and safety of the individuals involved. Recognizing that the potential application of Disciplinary Sanctions could be a factor that deters students from making the responsible decision to seek medical attention for themselves or others in cases of student intoxication and/or alcohol poisoning, the University has instituted the Purdue Community Alcohol-Related Emergency Situation (PurdueCARES) Program and adopted this policy.