Alcohol poisoning and drug overdose are serious and life-threatening medical emergencies. Students may encounter this type of emergency during their time at UT. Sometimes students are afraid to seek emergency medical care when alcohol poisoning or drug overdose is suspected because they do not want to get themselves or others in trouble. The Student Amnesty for Alcohol and Drug Emergencies policy is designed to empower students to prevent high-risk behavior by seeking help for fellow students who are experiencing a medical emergency due to drug or alcohol consumption.
A student should seek help immediately if they are concerned about someone experiencing a medical emergency.
What is Student Amnesty for Alcohol and Drug Emergencies?
Amnesty means current UT students can avoid formal University disciplinary action when they seek emergency medical assistance for themselves or others experiencing a medical emergency due to drug or alcohol consumption. Students who are granted amnesty may still receive communication and resources from departments on campus to support their well-being and reduce risk in the future.
Who is amnesty for?
Amnesty may be granted to the UT student(s) calling for help, as well as the student who is experiencing the medical emergency. Amnesty may be granted if the student seeking help:
Who grants amnesty?
Student Conduct and Academic Integrity evaluates if a student is eligible for amnesty when they are referred for alcohol- and drug-related incidents. Learn more about UT's alcohol policies.
How does it work?
CALL: Call 911 or emergency personnel immediately when you see the signs of alcohol poisoning or drug overdose.
STAY: Stay with the person.
HELP: Gently turn the person on their side to facilitate breathing and avoid choking should the person vomit.
ANSWER: Cooperate with all emergency personnel.
AFTER THE INCIDENT:
What should I do in an alcohol medical emergency?
What should I do in the case of a drug overdose?
Student Amnesty for Alcohol and Drug Emergencies applies in the case of the following:
Texas Amnesty Law
The University's policy is separate from the state amnesty policy, Senate Bill 1331 (Texas 911 Lifeline legislation), which provides amnesty against criminal citations for those seeking medical attention as the result of an illegal action, such as minor in consumption or possession of alcohol by a minor. Student Amnesty for Alcohol and Drug Emergencies provides protection against formal disciplinary action by the University for both alcohol- and drug-related incidences, whereas the Texas 911 Lifeline legislation provides protection against legal action in relation only to alcohol-related incidences.
This means that if you are granted amnesty from the university for a drug-related medical emergency not involving alcohol, you may not receive protection from disciplinary action from the state of Texas.
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