Substance abuse is of great concern to the Sarah Lawrence community. Among the many health risks attendant to substance abuse is accidental overdose, physical and/or psychological dependence, organic damage, depression and increased susceptibility to accidents leading to serious injury. Because the College stresses the importance of preventative measures in dealing with any potential health problems, and in order to comply with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, the College has adopted the following policy for its faculty, administration, staff and student employees:

The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of illicit drugs or alcohol is strictly prohibited within the workplace and on all campus property. Illicit drugs are defined as any drug or drug-like substance whose use or possession is unlawful. Illicit alcohol is defined as any use of alcohol inconsistent with local, state or federal laws and regulations.

Penalties for Violation of the Policy:

Failure to abide by this policy will lead to disciplinary action, which could include censure, suspension, required participation in a drug/alcohol rehabilitation program, termination and/or referral for prosecution of an employee.

Legal Sanctions:

Employees are responsible for obeying all local, state, and federal laws concerning drugs and alcohol. Legal sanctions, as a result of conviction for unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol, could include fines, community service work, required participation in a local, state or federally approved rehabilitation program and/or imprisonment.

Available Resources for Treatment:

The primary interest of the College is in the well-being of its employees. For that reason, we urge any employee who may be suffering from substance abuse or related problems to seek appropriate counseling and rehabilitation immediately. The provision of such counseling is available through public and private drug and alcohol agencies throughout Westchester County.

Off-Campus Resources for Evaluation and Treatment:

• United Way of Westchester Referral Service & Help-line
  914-949-INFO (914-949-4636)

• Westchester Department of Community Mental Health

• Addiction Institute of New York, St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital Center
  100 Tenth Avenue, NY, NY 10019
  212-523-6491

• Harm Reduction Psychotherapy and Training Associates, New York City
  info@harmreductioncounseling.com
  212-633-8157

• Pride Institute at Cornerstone (LGBT Outpatient Chemical Dependency)
  57 West 57th St, NY, NY 10019
  1-800-54-PRIDE

If it is warranted, the National Council on Alcoholism and Other Drug Addictions will perform an evaluation of employees suffering from substance abuse and make a referral to appropriate treatment. In addition, Health Services staff can provide referrals for faculty and staff.