Human Resources

Staff Handbook

Drug and Alcohol Policy

Texas A&M University-Kingsville has a vital interest in ensuring the health and safety of its employees and the protection of property while assuring productivity, public trust, and a safe work environment.

The use, sale, purchase, transfer, or possession of any illegal drug or controlled substance by an employee while performing Texas A&M University-Kingsville business or on the Texas A&M University-Kingsville premises is prohibited. Any illegal substance found by Texas A&M University-Kingsville or its employees will be turned over to the University Police.

Employees will not be permitted to work under the influence of alcohol or prohibited drugs.

Prohibited drugs are defined as illegal substances and prescribed controlled substances which have not been specifically prescribed by a registered physician for specific medical treatment of the employee.

An employee who appears to be unfit for work will not be permitted to work and may be subject to a fitness-for-duty examination to determine his or her ability to return to work. The employee may use either sick time or vacation leave, if available.

Employees who suffer from alcohol or drug related problems are encouraged to seek assistance from an appropriate professional before the problem leads to disciplinary action. An employee's decision to seek appropriate professional assistance will not be used against the employee in any disciplinary action. Conversely, enrollment in an approved substance abuse program will not exempt an employee from the policy, disciplinary action, or Texas A&M University-Kingsville policy requirements.

Texas A&M University-Kingsville does not intend to authorize indiscriminate searches of lockers, desks or personal effects on the University property, but does reserve the right to do so if there is a legitimate suspicion of drugs, alcohol, or contraband being held in such areas.

On or off-the-job involvement with illegal drug use including a criminal conviction for such activity may be considered to be in violation of this policy, depending upon the nature of the charges, the circumstances of the arrest/conviction, as well as other factors, and the employees work record with Texas A&M University-Kingsville.

Any violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment. Texas A&M University-Kingsville reserves the right to require a second opinion by a caregiver of the University's choice.

This page last updated 21 December, 2004