Substance Abuse Policy
The college complies with all state and federal laws governing the possession, use and sale of alcohol, drugs and other illegal substances on campus and at all college sponsored activities. In compliance with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989, the college annually distributes information and policy statements to each student and employee concerning standards of conduct, legal sanctions, health risks and programs related to its commitment to a drug free study and work environment. Copies of this information and policy statement are available in the following offices: Human Resources and Student Life.
Alcohol
Students are prohibited from the use, possession, manufacturing, or distribution of alcoholic beverages, or controlled substances, including marijuana, heroin or narcotics except as expressly permitted by law, as stated within the NECC Student Code of Conduct. Public intoxication is also prohibited on any NECC campus. Students found in violation of the Student Code of Conduct are subject to sanctions up to expulsion from the institution.
Marijuana
Although Massachusetts law permits the use of medical marijuana and the possession, use, distribution and cultivation of marijuana in limited amounts, federal law, prohibits the possession, use, distribution and/or cultivation of marijuana at educational institutions. This includes the Federal Controlled Substances Act of 1970, the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989. Further, as marijuana remains classified as an illegal narcotic under federal law, institutions of higher education that receive federal funding are required to maintain policies prohibiting the possession and use of marijuana on their campuses. Accordingly, the possession, use, distribution or cultivation of marijuana, even for medical purposes, is prohibited on all NECC property or at all NECC sponsored events and activities. Also prohibited is the operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of marijuana on NECC property or at NECC sponsored events or activities. Further, this policy prohibits the possession, use, or distribution of all marijuana accessories and marijuana products. Marijuana accessories include, but is not limited to, any devise or equipment used for ingesting, inhaling, or otherwise introducing marijuana into the human body. Marijuana products include, but are not limited to, products that are comprised of marijuana and other ingredients and are intended for use or consumption, such as but not limited to, edible products.
Violations of this policy by any student or employee shall result in disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion or termination in accordance with applicable College policies or collective bargaining agreements.
Revised: 2023-2024 Academic Catalog (Effective Fall 2023)