Student Handbook

Campus Policies and Rules

Alcohol Policy


Alcohol Policy

Texas A&M University-Kingsville is an educational institution dedicated to the pursuit of excellence, the promotion of academic achievement and the advancement of knowledge. Because of the university’s interest in the intellectual, physical and psychological well-being of the campus community, it is important that the university take steps to curtail the abusive or illegal use of alcoholic beverages. This will be accomplished by educating members of the university community about the effects of misuse and use of alcohol, and enforcement of the Alcohol Policy.

The use of alcoholic beverages by members of Texas A&M University-Kingsville community is at all times subject to the alcoholic beverage laws of the State of Texas. Individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase, possess or consume alcoholic beverages. 

Policy Rules

  1. Alcohol use, possession, manufacturing, or distribution of alcoholic beverages is prohibited on Texas A&M University-Kingsville premises and University sponsored events (except as expressly authorized by University regulations). Specified locations where alcohol is permitted on the Texas A&M University-Kingsville campus during a university-sanctioned event are: President’s Home, Founder’s Room, Memorial Student Union Building, McCulley Hall, John E. Conner Museum, Mesquite Grove, Tailgate Area near Javelina Stadium, or other locations designated by the president.
  2. University rules prohibit drinking or being in possession of any alcoholic beverage in public or private areas of University premises not approved for such activity; possession and/or consumption by a minor; furnishing alcohol to a minor; use, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages while driving or riding in or on a vehicle on university premises is prohibited; individual may not be in a state of public intoxication or drunkenness; individuals may not operate a motor vehicle or another form of transportation while intoxicated or while under the influence of alcohol.
  3. Residence Hall students who are 21 years of age may consume alcohol beverages only within their rooms but are expected to do so in moderation and without infringing on other residents’ rights to privacy, sleep and study. Individuals may not possess excessive amounts of alcohol. 
  4. Possessing excessive amounts of alcohol, and/or furnishing or serving from a common source of alcohol (i.e., kegs, mini-kegs, beer balls, etc.) in the residence halls is prohibited in apartments, suites, and/or individual rooms. Sanctions apply to all students (residents and non-residents) present at the time of the infraction and/or to all students (residents and non-residents) who were involved in any way in planning or hosting an event at which a common source or bulk container is provided. In addition, empty cans, kegs, mini-kegs, beer balls, and/or any tapping devices are not permitted in any apartment, suite, or individual room for any purpose, including use as decorations and/or furnishings. (Refer to University Housing & Residence Life Guidebook for additional rules.)
  5. Objects and drinking apparatuses or methods that promote irresponsible binge consumption of alcohol, which include, but are not limited to, funnels, beer bongs, beer pong tables, or drinking games are prohibited at all times on university premises. All individuals present at the time of the infraction may be charged for a policy violation.

Recognized student organizations and student groups must comply with the Alcohol Policy and university alcohol use guidelines for student organizations. Failure to comply may lead to suspension or expulsion of the organization or group, restrictions or revocation of campus privileges, or other lesser sanctions listed in the Student Code of Conduct. (Refer to the Student Organization Manual for specific rules).

Individuals not in compliance with the alcohol policy are subject to arrest and/or citation by the University Police Department. The offending student or organization will also be subject to university disciplinary action and sanctions commensurate with the offense and any aggravating or mitigating circumstances.

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act requires, as a condition of receiving any federal funding or other financial assistance, that an institution of higher education certify it has adopted and implemented a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol for students and employees on school premises and as a part of its activities. The University publishes a Biennial Review of alcohol and other drug programs and existing alcohol abuse and drug use policies. The latest Biennial Review is located at:

https://www.tamuk.edu/shw/biennial-review.html