The Right Choice for Your Success

File code: STU.RTKNOW.POL
Approval Date: Prior to 1998
Approved By: President

Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act, and Drug-Free School and Communities Act Information

Abuse of drugs and alcohol at Western harms not only the abuser, but it is harmful for the entire University community.

Under the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, Public Law 101-226, Western Illinois University must provide students with information regarding standards of conduct, legal and institutional sanctions, health risks and counseling services related to substance abuse on campus.

It is everyone's responsibility to ensure that Western is a safe and productive University that fosters learning. The following information is provided to help make sure that Western Illinois University is a "Drug-Free School".

According to Western Illinois University policy:

"Faculty, administrative staff, civil service employees and/or students shall not manufacture, possess, use, deliver, sell or distribute any substance prohibited by the Illinois Cannabis Control Act or the Illinois Controlled Substance Act, any other municipal, state or federal statute, except as authorized by law, the regulations of the Board of Trustees and the policies of Western Illinois University."

"Students and/or their guests under 21 years of age may not possess or consume alcoholic beverages on University property."

"Students and/or their guests who are 21 years of age or older may not possess or consume alcoholic beverages on University property, except in certain designated locations which have been specified in accordance with state law and University policy (consult the Residence Hall Handbook and/or Student Activities Office for locations which have been designated as exceptions)."

In addition, any student who violates any state or federal law while on property owned or controlled or at activities being sponsored/supervised by the University shall be subject to University judicial action for said offense(s) and to sanctions prescribed by the Code of Student Conduct. The adjudication of such violations may proceed independently of any actions being taken by state or federal authorities.

A number of Illinois and federal criminal statutes provide extended definitions of what constitutes illegal possession, use and distribution of alcohol and drugs. Criminal penalties for violations of Illinois statutes include terms of imprisonment for up to sixty (60) years and fines of up to $500,000. Equally severe penalties and sanctions may be imposed for violations of federal statutes. Definitions of legal sanctions under Illinois law for the unlawful possession, use and distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol are included under Chapters 43 and 56 11/2 of the Illinois Revised Statutes 1989, copies of which are available for review by students and employees in the University library. Additional definitions of legal sanctions under federal law may also be obtained through the library.

Students who violate University policies concerning drugs and alcohol, will be referred to the University Judicial System for disciplinary action which can include expulsion in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct.

Alcohol, Traffic and False ID Offenses
ILCS (Illinois Compiled Statutes)

  1. Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or other drugs.
    Penalty: Class A Misdemeanor
    625 ILCS 5/11-501.
    Penalty: License suspension/counseling/revocation of license.
    Second Offense: 48 hours in jail or 10 day community service.
    Third Offense or great bodily harm: Class 4 Felony.
  2. Zero Alcohol Tolerance - Driving while in Violation of the underage consumption of alcohol statute.
    Penalty: Driver's License Suspension
    625 ILCS 5/11-501.8
  3. Illegal transportation or possession of alcohol in a motor vehicle.
    Penalty: Petty offense.
    625 ILCS 5/11-502.
    Penalty: Possible driver's license suspension.
  4. Sales to and possession of alcohol by persons under 21.
    Penalty: Class A Misdemeanor (Sales)
    Penalty: Class B Misdemeanor (Possession)
    235 ILCS 5/6-16.
  5. Unlawful use, possession/selling, manufacturing, giving or furnishing false ID to individuals. (False ID Card)
    Penalty: Class A Misdemeanor
    15 ILCS 335/14.
    Penalty: Possible driver's license suspension.
  6. Unlawful use of driver's license or permit. (False Driver's License)
    Penalty: Class A Misdemeanor
    625 ILCS 5/6-301.
    Penalty: Possible driver's license suspension.

Sanctions:

Class 4 Felony: Imprisonment in a State Prison 1-3 years, fine up to $10,000.
Class A Misdemeanor: $1,000 fine and/or one year in jail.
Class B Misdemeanor: $1,000 fine and/or six months in jail.
Class C Misdemeanor: $500 fine and/or 30 days in jail.
Petty Offense: $500 fine.

You Need to be Concerned If:

  • Your lifestyle includes the use of illicit drugs.
  • Alcoholic beverages or drugs play a significant role in your leisure activities.
  • You are losing time from school due to the use of alcohol and drugs.
  • Your drinking or drug use makes you careless of your friends' welfare.
  • You drink or use drugs to escape worries or troubles.

Where to Get Help or Further Information:

  • WIU Counseling Center, 298-2453.
  • Beu Health Center, 298-1888.
  • Community Mental Health Center, 833-2191.
  • McDonough District Hospital, 833-4101.
  • Substance Abuse Prevention Program, Beu Health Center, 298-1888.
  • WIU Office of Public Safety, 298-1949.

    Or contact your Resident Assistant, Residence Hall Director, your advisor, or a faculty or staff member and ask for assistance.