Drug and Controlled Substance Policy

The University of Mary Washington does not tolerate the possession or use of illegal drugs on campus or while operating or traveling in any UMW or state-owned vehicle.

The use of, provision of, manufacture of, merchandising of, or possession of drugs without a doctor's prescription is prohibited by federal and state laws and by UMW. The University prohibits possession of drug paraphernalia on campus. Violations of these rules will result in expulsion from the University, as well as prosecution by civil authorities.

For the purpose of this regulation, drugs are defined as including, but not limited to: marijuana, cocaine, crack, ice, hashish, amphetamines, LSD compounds, mescaline, psilocybin, DMT, narcotics, opiates, and other hallucinogens except when taken under a physician's prescription in accordance with the law. Drug paraphernalia includes but is not limited to: bongs, roach clips, pipes, hypodermic syringes, and needles. Hookahs and similar devices are considered drug paraphernalia and are not permitted on campus.

The Fredericksburg and Stafford campuses of UMW both are designated "drug free school zones". This action, which applies the provisions of Code of Virginia Sec. 18.2-155.2 to both UMW campuses, makes it unlawful for any person to manufacture, sell or distribute or possess with intent to sell, give or distribute any controlled substance, imitation controlled substance, or marijuana at any time while on the property, including buildings and grounds or on property open to public use within 1,000 feet of university property. Nothing in this resolution shall prohibit the authorized distribution of controlled substances. Violations of the provisions of this resolution and the Code of Virginia shall constitute a separate and distinct felony. Any person violating the provisions set forth in this section shall, upon conviction, be imprisoned for a term of not less than one year nor more than five years and fined not more than $100,000. However, if such person proves that he sold such controlled substance or marijuana only as an accommodation to another individual and not with intent to profit from any consideration received, or to induce the recipient or intended recipient to use or become addicted to or dependent upon such controlled substance or marijuana, he/she shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Prosecution, under the provisions of this section of the Code of Virginia, does not preclude the enforcement of other University regulations concerning the possession and/or use of drugs or drug paraphernalia.

The Police Department is proactive in its efforts to maintain a drug free campus. Persons who are apprehended in violation of this regulation are subject to criminal penalties as well as suspension or expulsion from the University. UMW is a drug free workplace, and employees are subject to criminal prosecution as well as termination from the University if found in violation of this policy.