Home > Faculty Senate > Faculty Handbook > Faculty Rights and Responsibilities > A Drug-Free Work Place
A Drug-Free Work Place
Valdosta State University, as a regional university in the University System of Georgia and recipient of federal funds, supports and complies with the Drug Free Work Place Act of 1988 and the Drug Free Colleges and Communities Act of 1989.
Valdosta State University, created the Drug Free Work Place Policy (revised 6-1-1991), which states:
- Valdosta State University, as a recipient of federal funds, supports and complies with the provisions of the Drug Free Work Place Act of 1988. As an employer, Valdosta State University will aggressively promote and strive to maintain a drug free work place for its faculty and staff.
- The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of illegal drugs by Valdosta State University employees is prohibited.
- Violations of this policy, to include misdemeanor and/or felony drug convictions during the course of one's employment will result in appropriate disciplinary actions being imposed by the institution. Said penalties may include suspension or termination of employment.
- If an employee is convicted (including a plea of nolo contendre) of violating any criminal drug statute of any jurisdiction, regardless of where such violation occurred, the employee, as a condition of employment, must notify the Personnel Office in writing, routed through their departmental supervisor, of said conviction within 5 calendar days of such action.
- Employees who feel they have a potential substance abuse problem are encouraged to seek professional assistance. The Valdosta State University Counseling Center staff will treat such requests for evaluation or therapy confidentially and provide short term assistance limited to five sessions where indicated. Longer term counseling or therapy will remain the individual's responsibility, and use of private practitioners or rehabilitation facilities is encouraged by the institution.
- Faculty, staff members, and student employees of Valdosta State University are expected to adhere to the policies of the institution, observe the basic rules of good conduct, and to meet appropriate standards of performance. This policy, as with other institutional policies, including state and federal laws, and Board of Regents policies shall be observed.