UVU Drug & Alcohol Prevention

As mandated by state and federal law, Utah Valley University (UVU) maintains a drug-free campus. UVU is an institution committed to providing professional help for individuals on campus who may have a drug and/or alcohol problem. If you are aware of a UVU student, staff, or faculty who struggles with substance abuse, you can contact your instructor or Student Rights & Accountability for assistance. Confidentiality will be maintained. We hope that you will feel an obligation to help those in need and to help maintain a drug-free campus.

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Drug & Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program (DAAPP)

Utah Valley University is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all students and employees. UVU’s Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program (DAAPP) seeks to provide students and employees support regarding the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol.

In this DAAPP, you will find university policies and regulations related to drug and alcohol abuse prevention; local, state, and federal laws regarding drugs and alcohol; the health risks associated with the use of drugs and alcohol; the programs and intervention efforts provided by the university; and the disciplinary sanctions associated with violations of university policies and regulations.

Biennial Review

UVU conducts a biennial review to measure the effectiveness of its DAAPP and to ensure consistent treatment in enforcement of its disciplinary sanctions. Review the most recent DAAPP review for the most up-to-date information.

UVU Drug Alcohol Prevention Review

UVU Policy and Standards of Conduct

In keeping with these objectives, the University maintains an alcohol- and drug-free workplace consistent with its Code of Conduct and in compliance with state and federal laws and regulations. Unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on UVU property or as part of UVU activities is strictly prohibited (UVU Policy 155).

Safe Harbor

UVU has a Safe Harbor program that affords students protection from penalty if a student, in good faith, self-reports their own addiction or substance misuse to the appropriate university officials before the threat of drug testing and/or discipline. Students seeking safe harbor should contact Student Rights and Accountability.

More information about Safe Harbor can be found in UVU Policy 541: Student Code of Conduct.

Disciplinary Sanctions

Any faculty, staff member, or student who violates the standards of conduct, or who does not cooperate with the college in its attempts to maintain a drug-free environment, will face disciplinary action up to and including expulsion, dismissal, termination of employment, and referral for prosecution. Disciplinary action may include the completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program (UVU Policy 155).

Legal Sanctions

The City of Orem has adopted the Utah Criminal Code, including drug offenses. Violations of criminal provisions adopted by Orem City Code will be punished as prescribed by state law. If the punishment is not specifically provided by state law, the offense will be punished by a fine of up to $1000 or imprisonment of up to 6 months, or both. See Orem City Code 9-1.

Utah laws prohibit the possession and distribution of controlled substances, which are defined in Utah’s statutes and include such drugs as marijuana, heroin, cocaine, and prescribed medications. See Utah Code Ann. § 58-37-4 for a listing of controlled substances.

In Utah, it is unlawful to produce, manufacture and/or dispense a controlled substance. Violation of this law may result in charges running from a class A misdemeanor to second degree felony depending upon the type of controlled substance and the circumstances of the crime. Utah Code Ann. § 58-37-8(1).

It is unlawful in Utah possess or use a controlled substance except pursuant to a valid prescription. Violation of this law may result in charges running from a class B misdemeanor to second degree felony depending upon the quantity of drugs within the individual’s possession. Utah Code Ann. §58-37-8(2).

It is a class B misdemeanor in Utah to use or possess drug paraphernalia. Utah Code Ann. § 58-37a-5.

Penalties for drug violations in Utah may include incarceration for certain periods of time and fines ranging from $750 to $10,000 depending upon the nature and circumstances of the offense. Utah law provides for enhanced penalties and charges if the drug violations occur on a college campus.

Learn more about Utah drug laws here.

Utah law prohibits minors under the age of 21 from consuming alcohol. Utah Code Ann. § 32B-4-409. A violation of this law will result in the suspension of driving privileges. It is also unlawful in Utah to sell or distribute alcohol to a minor Utah Code Ann § 32B-4-403. Violation of this law is a class A or B misdemeanor.

Utah law prohibits driving while under the influence of alcohol. Utah Code Ann. §41-6a503. Violations of this law may result in a class B misdemeanor to a third-degree felony depending upon the circumstances. Driving under the influence will also result in the suspension or revocation of a driving license.

Learn more about Utah alcohol laws here.

Health Risks & Federal Penalties

Alcohol & Tobacco Laws and Penalties

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

It is illegal to drive or be in physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Utah’s Implied Consent law requires submission to blood alcohol content (BAC) test. Refusal will result in revocation of license for one year. You are in violation if your BAC is .05 or greater or the officer judges you to be impaired.

Penalty

Up to 6 months imprisonment and/or $1,000 fine, rehabilitation assessment and education class, suspension of license for 90 days, or $100 to victim restitution fund. Accident, injury, or death will increase penalties. Class B misdemeanor.

Minor in Possession (MIP)

It is illegal for minors (under 21) to buy, possess (even hold), or drink alcohol.

Penalty

Up to 6 months imprisonment and/or $1,000 fine. Class B misdemeanor.

Not-A-Drop Statute

You are in violation if you are under 21, have consumed any amount of alcohol, and are driving.

Penalty

Lose license for 90 days, required substance abuse assessment, and may still face DUI and MIP laws.

Open Container

It is illegal to drink any alcoholic beverage while operating, or as a passenger in, a vehicle (parked or moving), or have an open container in vehicle.

Penalty

Up to 6 months imprisonment and/or $1,000 fine. Class B misdemeanor.

Selling, Furnishing, or Supplying Alcohol to a Minor

You are in violation if you provide alcohol to a minor.

Penalty

Up to 1 year imprisonment and /or up to $2,500 fine. Class A misdemeanor.

Intoxication

A person is in violation if he is under the influence of intoxicating liquor or other substances to the degree that the person may endanger himself or others in a public or private place and unreasonably disturbs others.

Penalty

Imprisonment in jail or detoxification center if necessary for protection of self or others. Class C misdemeanor.

Tobacco Use or Possession

It is unlawful for any person under the age of 21 to purchase or possess tobacco in any form.

Penalty

Maximum $500 fine. Class C misdemeanor.

Utah Indoor Clean Air Act

Prohibits smoking in a public place, public meeting, or any government building. (All buildings on UVU campus.)

Penalty

Maximum $500 fine. Class C misdemeanor.

Alcohol Health Risks

Drug, alcohol, and substance use comes with significant health and wellness risks. In addition to medical health risks, any drug use increases the risk of impaired learning, accidents, violence, acquaintance rape, unplanned pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases.

Possible Effects

  • Psychologically and physically addictive
  • Increased likelihood of accidents and injuries due to violence
  • Respiratory depression and suppression of the immune system
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer
  • Hypertension
  • Brain damage
  • Impotence

Additionally, alcohol consumption is associated with drunk driving crashes and raises the risk of engaging in unwanted sexual encounters, unintended pregnancies, contracting sexually transmitted infections, and experiencing acquaintance or date rape.

Expectant mothers who consume alcohol during pregnancy risk giving birth to infants with irreversible physical abnormalities and mental disability known as Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Furthermore, research suggests that children of alcoholic parents are more susceptible to developing alcoholism themselves.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Continued alcohol consumption may result in dependency. Abrupt cessation can trigger withdrawal symptoms such as severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions, which can be life-threatening. Prolonged intake of substantial alcohol quantities, coupled with inadequate nutrition, can also cause irreversible damage to vital organs.

Alcohol Poisoning

Alcohol poisoning, also known as alcohol overdose, constitutes a medical emergency. Alcohol, being a depressant, can impair parts of the brain responsible for involuntary functions such as breathing and the gag reflex, potentially leading to choking on vomit or respiratory failure resulting in coma or death. Leaving an individual to "sleep it off" can be perilous. If you encounter someone who is unconscious and unresponsive or suspect alcohol overdose, it's crucial to take immediate action by calling 911.

Indications and Symptoms of Alcohol Overdose

  • Mental confusion, coma, inability to awaken
  • Vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Slow breathing (less than 10 breaths per minute)
  • Irregular breathing (10 seconds or more between breaths)
  • Low body temperature, bluish skin color, paleness
While Awaiting Emergency Assistance
  • Position an unconscious person on their side to prevent choking in case of vomiting.
  • Cooperate fully with emergency medical personnel or law enforcement, providing accurate information.
  • Do not hesitate to seek help for fear of consequences.

Resources

UVU Wellness Programs

Students on UVU campus
UVU Wellness Programs strives to promote habits of health and wellness in the lives of students, faculty, and staff at Utah Valley University. We provide educational and comprehensive programs and services that address the eight dimensions of health and support students and employees in their pursuit of lifelong wellness.
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UVU Student Health Services

UVU students on campus
Student Health Services provides low-cost, accessible care to UVU students. Our dedicated staff offers medical and psychiatric care, mental health services, learning disability assessments, and crisis services. We aim to enhance safety, productivity, and overall life experience for both individuals and the campus community.
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UVU Police Department

Montage of UVU police services in action
The mission of the Utah Valley University Police Department (UVUPD) is to ensure the safety and property of students, faculty, and staff on the Orem campus. UVUPD is fully accredited in Utah and focuses on educating students about crime prevention. They offer victim services, including advocacy and community assistance referrals.
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UVU Office of Students Rights & Accountability

UVU campus
The UVU Office of Student Rights and Accountability manages the Student Code of Conduct. They address issues related to the Drug and Alcohol Policy and student rights concerning substance use or code violations. They also offer class presentations about their procedures and handling of drug and alcohol use on campus, in apartments, and at parties.
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UVU Ombuds

UVU students on campus
The Ombuds is a neutral and confidential resource for students to talk about personal or university related subjects of any kind. In order to serve as a mediator, as opposed to an advocate, the Ombuds neutrally and objectively listens to all problems.
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Open 12-Step Recovery Meetings

Comfortable room on UVU campus for 12-step recovery meetings

Thursdays at 12 pm in SL 216K (inside the Outdoor Adventure Center)


This open meeting is for those in any stage of recovery from any addiction and/or codependency. Requirement for attendance is the desire to be sober and healthy. UVU Parking Garage validation available for meetings. Passport Parking app with account required for validation.

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UVU Tobacco Cessation Coaching Session

No Smoking Sign
UVU Wellness Programs offers a Tobacco Cessation Program to help participants quit tobacco and e-cigarettes with the support of a personal Wellness Coach. The program educates on the health effects of tobacco and the benefits of quitting. Participants receive personalized quit plans and resources, with the program duration tailored to individual needs. A smoking cessation quit kit is included.
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