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Human Resources

Drugs and Alcohol Don’t Work at MTSU

Middle Tennessee State University prohibits the possession, use, or distribution of illegal drugs and alcohol on the campus proper or on institutionally-owned, leased, or otherwise controlled property.

Various federal and state statutes make it unlawful to manufacture, distribute, dispense, deliver or sell, or possess with intent to manufacture, distribute, dispense, deliver, or sell controlled substances. The penalty imposed depends upon many factors which include the type and amount of controlled substance involved, the number of prior offenses, if any, and whether any other crimes were committed in connection with the use of the controlled substance. Possible sanctions include incarceration up to and including life imprisonment and imposition of substantial monetary fines.

Tennessee statues provide that it is unlawful for any person under the age of twenty-one (21) to buy, possess, transport (unless in the course of his or her employment), or consume alcoholic beverages, wine, or beer. Any violation of this law results in an offense classified a Class A misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 11 months, 29 days, or by a fine of not more than $2,500, or both. The receipt, possession, or transportation of alcoholic beverages without the required revenue stamp is also a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment of not more than thirty (30) days or a fine of not more than $50, or both.

The use of alcohol can lead to serious health risk:

  • loss of muscle control, poor coordination, slurred speech
  • fatigue, nausea, headache
  • increased likelihood of accidents
  • impaired judgment
  • possible respiratory paralysis and death
  • birth defects/fetal impairment

Heavy drinking can lead to:

  • alcoholism
  • damage to brain cells
  • increased risk of cirrhosis, ulcers, heart disease, heart attack, and cancers of liver, mouth, throat, and stomach
  • hallucinations
  • personality disorders

Health risks associated with the use of illegal drugs include:

  • increased susceptibility to disease due to a less efficient immune system
  • increased likelihood of accidents
  • personality disorders
  • addiction
  • death by overdose
  • anemia
  • poor concentration
  • fetal impairment/addiction

Additional information about how the use of drugs and/or alcohol affects your health is available through the Health Promotion office of Student Health Services located in the Health, Wellness, and Recreation Center.

MTSU regular employees with full benefits have available to them the statewide Employee Assistance Program which provides confidential assistance for assessment and short-term counseling. Up to six visits are provided free of charge. Additionally, treatment for chemical dependencies on both an in-patient and out-patient basis are generally covered expenses under the state group health insurance plan. Please refer to your health insurance brochures for specific coverages and limitations. Referral to community treatment facilities may be made by the MTSU Human Resource Services Office if assistance is desired.

Middle Tennessee State University will impose sanctions against individuals who have violated rules prohibiting the use, possession, or distribution of illegal drugs or alcohol.

Sanctions for students using or possessing illegal drugs or alcohol include disciplinary probation, and in appropriate cases, suspension from the University. In addition, residence hall students will be removed from the housing system. Referral for criminal prosecution may be made in all appropriate cases.
Individuals involved in the sale or distribution of illegal drugs or alcohol will be suspended from the University and referred to the appropriate authorities for criminal prosecution.

All employees, including student employees, agree as a condition of employment to abide by this policy. Sanctions against employees for use or possession of illegal drugs or alcohol in the workplace include termination of employment by means of the termination procedures available by contract and/or in policy. Additionally, employees are required to notify the institution of any drug convictions no later than five days after the conviction

In compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act and the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, MTSU provides this information as a service to the campus community.

Human Resource Services 

Middle Tennessee State University 
2269 Middle Tennessee Boulevard 
204 Sam H. Ingram Building 
Murfreesboro, TN  37132-0001
(615)-898-2929