DATE: February 29, 2008

CONTACT: Gail DiSabatino, (864) 656-2161
gaild@clemson.edu

CONTACT: Tom Richey, (864) 656-2697
tr@clemson.edu

WRITER: Robin S. Denny, (864) 656-2061 (office), 207-1162 (cell)
robin@clemson.edu

Clemson University establishes medical alcohol amnesty policy

CLEMSON — Clemson University administrators, faculty, staff and students have collaborated to develop an amnesty policy that will benefit individuals in medical emergencies related to alcohol consumption.
 
“Health and safety are always our primary concerns,” said Gail DiSabatino, vice president for student affairs, who approved the new policy. “We will help students who require medical assistance in alcohol-related emergencies and provide caring, non-punitive intervention.”
 
The Medical Alcohol Amnesty Policy (MAAP) is one component of the university’s comprehensive approach to reducing harmful consequences caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
 
Anyone who receives emergency medical attention for alcohol consumption, or seeks assistance for someone in an alcohol-related emergency, will not be charged with violations of university alcohol-related policies. No one may receive protection under this policy more than once in a two-year period.
 
A representative of an organization holding an event is required to promptly seek medical assistance in an alcohol-related emergency. No organization may receive protection under the new policy more than once a year.

The new policy does not exempt students from arrest or criminal prosecution for violating alcohol- or drug-related laws. It applies only to enforcement of the university's student conduct code.
 
“The university is committed to facilitating informed decision-making by individuals in alcohol-related emergencies. To achieve this goal, the MAAP allows discretion to be exercised, as permitted under the code of conduct,” DiSabatino said.
 
Additional educational programs and training will help students recognize signs of alcohol-related distress and know when to call for medical assistance.
 
“Today is a great day to be a part of the Clemson family,” said Tom Richey, president of graduate student government. “This policy encompasses the spirit of community-mindedness that many of us have tried to promote through EMpower Clemson.  Although it is my hope that this policy will never have to be used, I am glad that Clemson has sent a message to the student body that punishment does not await those who try to help their friends.”