I. Introduction

Linn-Benton Community College is legally required and morally committed to the prevention of illegal drug use and the abuse of alcohol by both students and employees.  Drug and alcohol abuse is a significant public health problem which has spread throughout our society, affecting performance and productivity, as well as our level of general health.  In addition, the use of drugs can adversely affect an organization’s level of safety as well as its public confidence and trust.  And lastly, with reference to “The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment of 1989 (Public Law 101-226),” “...No institution of higher education shall be eligible to receive funds or any other form of financial assistance under any Federal program, including participation in any federally funded or guaranteed student loan program, unless it certifies to the Secretary that it has adopted and has implemented a program to prevent the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol by students and employees...” 

In brief, this document has been developed by LBCC to comply with the current federal law and to educate and inform its students and employees of the health risks, counseling and treatment resources, and sanctions for noncompliance.  Linn-Benton will biennially review this program to determine its effectiveness and implement changes if needed and to ensure the sanctions required are consistently enforced.