2025 Drug & Alcohol Abuse Prevention Programs (DAAPP) Report

Report published November 2025 for the 2025-2026 academic year.

 

Introduction

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Texas Tech University is committed to fostering a campus community that promotes the overall wellbeing of its community members and is free from illegal drugs and alcohol abuse. In the following annual notification, you will find information about the university’s Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program (DAAPP), policies regarding drugs and alcohol, substance abuse prevention programs and services, and other resources for students, faculty, and staff. 

All campus community members should be aware that the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol on Texas Tech University property or as part of any Texas Tech University activity is prohibited by law and Texas Tech University policy. 

Drug-Free Schools & Communities Act (DFSCA) Drug & Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program (DAAPP)

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Regulations (34 CFR Part 86) of the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) requires that, as a condition of receiving funds or any other form of financial assistance under any federal program, an institution of higher education must adopt and implement a program designed to prevent the possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol by students and employees. 

 At a minimum, Texas Tech University must annually distribute the following in writing to all students and employees:                                         

• Standards of conduct that clearly prohibit the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees; 
• A description of the legal sanctions under local, state, or federal law for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol; 
• A description of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and alcohol abuse; 
• A description of any drug or alcohol counseling, treatment, rehabilitation or reentry programs that are available to employees and students; and 
• A clear statement that the institution will impose sanctions on students and employees and a description of those sanctions, up to and including expulsion or termination of employment and referral for prosecution, for violations of the standards of conduct or law. 

Policy and Annual Notifications

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Texas Tech University has enacted TTU OP 40.06 (Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act to ensure understanding of and standardized procedures in compliance with the provisions of the Drug-Free School and Communities Act, as amended. 

TTU OP 40.06: Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act describes the:

• Authority of how Texas Tech’s policy on drug and alcohol abuse prohibits the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of alcohol and illicit drugs by employees and students on Texas Tech property or as a part of any officially sponsored Texas Tech activities.
• Implementation of the policy to create an environment for employees and students that is free from illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol. This includes a biennial review of the drug and alcohol prevention program to determine its effectiveness, implementing changes if they are needed, and ensuring that sanctions are consistently enforced.
• Penalties for violation of the policy.

Annual Report Notifications

In addition to TTU OP 40.06, this Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program (DAAPP) has been created and annual notification of Texas Tech University’s DAAPP is distributed to all current students and employees each semester (fall, spring, and summer) through Texas Tech email. New employees receive notification at New Employee Orientation and from Human Resources electronically during the onboarding process. New students receive notification electronically upon enrollment. Employees and students can access the DAAPP and the accompanying Biennial Reports through the regularly updated Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act website.

Texas Tech University’s Office of Institutional Compliance also produces Annual Security Reports (ASRs) and Annual Security and Fire Safety Reports (ASFSRs) which describe campus policies and procedures surrounding safety and include statistics related to Clery Act crimes. On-campus alcohol and drug referrals and arrests are part of the statistics documented in the ASRs and ASFSRs. These reports are campus specific and are emailed annually to all students and employees by October 1st. All currently enrolled students, campus employees, and prospective students and prospective employees are entitled to request and receive a copy of the applicable ASR or ASFSR. They are also available online and can be requested in person at the Texas Tech Police Department (413 Flint Ave., Lubbock, TX).

Oversight Responsibility

Texas Tech University Office of Institutional Compliance is responsible for the annual notification of the DAAPP and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act biennial review, overseeing compliance with the continuing implementation and assessment of the programs included in this report. 

Institutional Compliance:

• Chief Compliance Officer: Dr. Kimberly Simón | kimberly.simon@ttu.edu | 806-834-1949
• Clery Compliance Officer: Claire Nevarez | claire.nevarez@ttu.edu | 806-834-1884

Standards of Conduct

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Students

The Texas Tech University Student Handbook and Code of Student Conduct outline behavioral standards developed by the university community for students and student organizations and the related procedures for addressing misconduct. The university may impose disciplinary charges against any student who violates the Texas Tech University Code of Student Conduct and/or local, state and federal laws concerning controlled substances. 

The policies regarding the use and abuse of alcohol and drugs are listed in Part I, Section B.3 and B.4 of the Student Code of Conduct and state that Texas Tech University specifically prohibits:

• B.3. Unlawful or unauthorized possession, use, distribution, delivery, or sale of alcohol and/or public intoxication; or operating a vehicle while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol. 
• B.4. Possession, use, sharing, furnishing or distribution of illegal drugs, intoxicants, controlled substances and/or drug paraphernalia; including the distribution, use or possession of prescription medications contrary to a valid prescription; being under the influence of illegal drugs, intoxicants, and/or controlled substances. 

Employees

Texas Tech University employees must abide by Texas Tech University System Regulation 07.07: Employee Conduct, Coaching, Corrective Action and Termination, Texas Tech University Operating Policy 70.20: Conducting Criminal Background Checks for Employment Purposes, and Texas Tech University Operating Policy 70.35: Drug and Alcohol Testing for Safety-and Security- Sensitive Positions. 

Other applicable policies include The Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989, the Drug-Free Work Force Rules for Department of Defense (DOD) Contractors, and the requirements of the Department of Transportation or other regulatory bodies and applicable state laws. Specifically, Texas Tech University prohibits: 

• Conduct that could constitute a violation of applicable criminal law while in the course and scope of employment, while on duty, at a university function, or on university property, regardless of whether criminal prosecution is pursued, or conviction is attained 
• Being unfit for duty, including being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or refusing to submit to a drug or alcohol test. 
• Unlawful or unauthorized possession, use, distribution, delivery, or sale of alcohol and/or public intoxication; consumption that endangers oneself; or operating a vehicle while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol. 
• Possession, use, sharing, furnishing or distribution of illegal drugs, intoxicants, controlled substances and/or drug paraphernalia; including the distribution, use or possession of prescription medications contrary to a valid prescription; being under the influence of illegal drugs, intoxicants, and/or controlled substances. 

Univeristy Facilities, Event, & Other Alcohol-Related Policies

Unlawful use of alcohol or illicit drugs is strictly prohibited on all university property and at university-sponsored events. The use of alcohol on university property or at university-sponsored events is strictly regulated by the following university policies: 

• University Student Housing Policies
• OP 72.05: Expenditures for Official Functions, Business Meetings, and Entertainment
• OP 34.26: Faculty-Led Study Abroad Programs
• OP 61.02: Use of University Grounds, Facilities, and Amplification Equipment
• OP 10.22: Concealed Carry of Handguns on Campus

Health Risks

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The health risks associated with the use and abuse of drugs and/or alcohol can be long-lasting and can result in serious injury or death. For more information about the specific health risks associated with drugs and alcohol, visit the National Institute on Drug Abuse website, or review The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) 2022 Resource Guide on Drugs of Abuse. 

Alcohol-Related Health Risks

Excessive alcohol use has immediate effects that increase the risk of many harmful health conditions. These are most often the result of binge drinking (defined as a pattern of drinking that brings blood alcohol concentration, BAC, to 0.08 g/dL [0.08%] or more)and include the following: 

• Injuries, such as motor vehicle crashes, falls, drownings, and burns.
• Violence, including homicide, suicide, sexual assault, and intimate partner violence.
• Alcohol poisoning, a medical emergency that results from high blood alcohol levels
• Risky sexual behaviors, including unprotected sex or sex with multiple partners. These behaviors can result in unintended pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.
• Miscarriage and stillbirth or fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) among pregnant women.

Over time, excessive alcohol use can lead to the development of chronic diseases and other serious problems including:

• High blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and digestive problems.
• Cancer of the breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, and colon.
• Weakening of the immune system, increasing the chances of getting sick.
• Learning and memory problems, including dementia and poor school performance.
• Mental health problems, including depression and anxiety.
• Social problems, including lost productivity, family problems, and unemployment.
• Alcohol use disorders, or alcohol dependence.

By monitoring your alcohol consumption and avoiding excessive drinking, you can significantly lower the risk of both short- and long-term health issues.

Drug-Related Health Risks

The long- and short-term effects of drug use vary greatly by substance, however, the health risks associated with the use and/or abuse of illicit drugs can be very serious and result in serious injury and/or death.

Marijuana/Cannabis

• Research shows that about 1 in 10 marijuana users will become addicted. For people who begin using before the age of 18, that number rises to 1 in 6.
• Marijuana use directly affects the brain — specifically the parts of the brain responsible for memory, learning, attention, decision making, coordination, emotions, and reaction time. Developing brains, like those in babies, children, and teens, are especially susceptible to the adverse effects of marijuana.
• Eating foods or drinking beverages that contain marijuana have some different risks than smoking marijuana, including a greater risk of poisoning.
• Long-term or frequent marijuana use has been linked to increased risk of psychosis or schizophrenia in some users.
• Using marijuana during pregnancy may increase the baby's risk for developmental problems.

Cocaine

• Snorting: loss of smell, nosebleeds, frequent runny nose, and problems with swallowing
• Smoking: cough, asthma, respiratory distress, and higher risk of infections like pneumonia
• Consuming by mouth: severe bowel decay from reduced blood flow
• Needle injection: higher risk for contracting HIV, hepatitis C, and other blood-borne diseases, skin or soft tissue infections, as well as scarring or collapsed veins

MDMA/Ecstasy/Molly

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure, muscle tension, nausea, faintness, chills or sweating, sharp rise in body temperature leading to kidney failure or death.
• Long-lasting confusion, depression, problems with attention, memory, and sleep, increased anxiety, impulsiveness, less interest in sex.

Prescription Opioids (Codeine, Fentanyl, oxycodone)

• Slowed breathing, death
• Long-term Increased risk of overdose or addiction if misused
• Dangerous slowing of heart rate and breathing leading to coma or death when used with alcohol.

Central Nervous system Depressants, Barbiturates, & Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Nembutal)

• Drowsiness, slurred speech, poor concentration, confusion, dizziness, problems with movement and memory, lowered blood pressure, slowed breathing.
• Dangerous slowing of heart rate and breathing leading to coma or death when used with alcohol.

Prescription Stimulants (adderall, Concerta)

• Increased blood pressure and heart rate, narrowed blood vessels, increased blood sugar
• High doses: dangerously high body temperature and irregular heartbeat, heart disease, seizures.
• Long Term: heart problems, psychosis, anger, paranoia.
• Masks the depressant action of alcohol, increasing risk of alcohol overdose; may increase blood pressure.

For more information about the health-related risks of drug and alcohol use, contact Risk Intervention and Safety Education (806-742-2110) or Texas Tech University Student Health Services (806-743-2848) if you are a Texas Tech student or the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (806-743-1327) if you are a Texas Tech employee. 

Drug and Alcohol Programs and Resources

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Students

Texas Tech University is dedicated to offering programs and services that emphasize educating students on the risks and consequences of drug and alcohol use.  Support services for student seeking help are provided by the university and referrals to community resources are made when the need of the student is beyond the scope of university-provided services.

• Risk Intervention & Safety Education (RISE) | Drane Hall 247, Lubbock, TX | 806-742-2110
  • Provides a wide range of alcohol and drug education initiatives, including interactive workshops, one-on-one wellness coaching, substance-free campus events, and administration of the required prevention education course for all incoming first-year and transfer students. In addition to the mandatory online course, students have access to specialized support programs such as:
    • Raider Restart for Alcohol and Raider Restart for Cannabis Use – Individual coaching sessions focused on harm-reduction strategies and healthier decision-making.
    • BASICS for Alcohol – Evidence-based sessions available to any student seeking to reduce the negative impacts of alcohol use.

• Student Health Services | 1003 Flint Ave., Lubbock, TX | 806-743-2848
  • Located in the Student Wellness Center
  • AUDIT-C: Questionnaire filled out at a student’s first visit and then annually to determine levels of alcohol consumption. (May be administered at each visit if the appointment is regarding an alcohol consumption concern or at the discretion of the clinician at any time.)
    
    • Education is provided by the clinician regarding responsible alcohol consumption
    • Counselors are available for further treatment
• Student Counseling Center | 1003 Flint Ave. Rm. 201, Lubbock, TX | 806-742-3674
  • Located in the Student Wellness Center
  • Individual and group counseling
  • In-person alcohol assessments provided 

• The Center for Students in Addiction Recovery | 1301 Akron Ave, Lubbock, TX | 806-742-2891

• • Program that assists students to flourish in recovery through accountability and support
  • Recovery Residence Options
  • Hosts daily 12- step Recovery-support meetings
  • Celebration of Recovery every Thursday at 7:00 pm when the university is open. Open to the Lubbock community
  • Weekly seminars for students in the Collegiate Recovery Community
  • Sober Tailgates
  • Student organizations to support and engage in Recovery enhancement through service
  • Annual Conference of Addiction, Recovery, and Families

• University Recreation | 3219 Main St., Lubbock, TX | 806-742-3351
  • Robert H. Ewalt Student Recreation Center has a diverse line-up of engaging programs and services which promote a healthy lifestyle

• Student Involvement | 1502 Akron Ave. Ste. 203, Lubbock TX | 806-742-5433
  • Provides annual required Risk Management training surrounding alcohol and drugs and how to implement best practices when alcohol is present at an event
  • Educates on Texas Tech policies and procedures surrounding alcohol and drugs

• Texas Tech Department of Intercollegiate Athletics Drug Policy & Program
  • As a condition of participation in intercollegiate athletics at Texas Tech, all student-athletes are required to agree, in writing, to comply with the drug policy and the consequences of any positive drug tests.
  • The basic goal of the drug program is education and to deter the use of drugs. However, education and assistance with potential substance use concerns are key components of the program.
  • Education is provided annually on the negative effects of drugs and alcohol on academics and athletics.

Employees

Texas Tech University is also committed to providing programs and services for employees that prioritize educating about the risks associated with drug and alcohol use. Support services for an employee seeking help are provided by the university programs and referrals may also be made to community resources.

• The Texas Employees Group Benefits Program (GPB)
  • The insurance program administered by the Employees Retirement Systems of Texas (ERS). ERS administers benefits for Texas Tech employees and retirees. Coverage for substance abuse can be found on page 87 of the Master Benefit Plan Document.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) | 806-743-1327 or 800-327-0328
  • Can provide substance use and abuse counseling, referrals, recovery support, and reentry counseling at the Tech University Health Sciences Center, 1A300 HSC building
  • Counseling services are private and confidential, and records are separate and not part of an employee’s personnel file. Information is not released to the employer or supervisor. Confidentiality is regulated by federal guidelines.
  • More information can be found by contacting the EAP directly or through TTU OP 70.33.

• The Counseling Center @ TTUHSC | 806-743-1327 or 800-327-0328
  • Can file insurance (for Texas Tech University System employees and their dependents), or accepts self-pay, if and when there is a need for sessions beyond the eight of the current EAP benefit

• HealthSelect Mental Health Virtual Visits
  • Employees who participate in HealthSelect can consult a licensed mental health professional any day of the week online. A mental health virtual visit is similar to an outpatient visit to a mental health provider’s office, but the visit is conducted online. Licensed mental health professionals can provide treatment for anxiety, depression, insomnia, substance abuse, anger management, and addiction. 

• HealthSelect Care Management Program
  • The HealthSelect Care Management Program is a team of dedicated clinicians who take a holistic approach to address all your health concerns and questions rather than trying to treat one condition that may be occurring today. Dedicated mental health clinicians are available for concerns including substance abuse issues.
  • If you have questions for a clinician about a physical or mental health concern or condition, call BCBSTX toll-free at (800) 252-8039 (TTY:711) between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday, and between 7:00 am and 3:00 pm CT on Saturday to speak with a clinician. 
  • You can get help with a mental health or substance use issue 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you or your covered dependents are in a crisis, call (800) 252-8039 (TTY:711).
  • The Care Management Program also identifies participants that may benefit from extra support and may reach out to you. 

Community Resources

• National Substance Abuse Hotline | 866-210-1303 (hotline for substance misuse and drug addiction)
• Alcoholics Anonymous | 806-799-0124
• Narcotics Anonymous | 818-773-9999 x771
  • 12 step meetings for people struggling with addiction. Local meetings available.
• Aspire Addition Recovery Centers | 888-502-3631
  • Inpatient and outpatient treatment programs for alcohol and drug addiction
• Stages of Recovery | 806-412-4721
  • Provides clients with multilayered addiction treatment plans that support lasting sobriety and personal growth.
• The Ranch at Dove Tree | 866-568-5661
  • Specializes in alcohol and drug addiction with co-occurring issues such as depression, anxiety, disordered eating, and trauma.
  • One of the nation’s leaders in alcohol and drug addiction treatment facilities.
•  Grace Manor | 806-897-9735
  • Alcohol and drug rehabilitation center that provides residential treatment to adults seeking recovery from addiction.
• SUSAN (Substance Use Service Assistance Network) | 806-775-3860
  • Provides financial assistance for treatment/detox, transportation (medical), medical services, personal hygiene, educational employment needs, sober housing, as well as assistance in harm reduction via syringe cleaning kits, Naloxone, condoms/lubricant, and wound/first aid kits.
• DB Education | 806-793-4522
  • State certified alcohol education classes for MIP, MIC, PI, DUI Minor and DWI offenses

 Legal Sanctions

Texas Tech University enforces all Federal and State laws and local ordinances. The Texas Tech Police Department can be contacted at 806-742-3931 for non-emergencies and 911 for emergencies. 

Federal Statutes

Possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs is prohibited by federal law. Strict penalties are provided for drug convictions, including mandatory prison terms for many offenses. Penalties increase significantly where use of the illicit drugs results in death. Serious fees, on-campus housing contract cancellation, and suspension or expulsion from the university may also occur. 

The following information, although not complete, is an overview of federal penalties for first convictions. 

The Federal Uniform Drinking Age Act of 1984 set the minimum legal drinking age to 21 in the United States, and every state, including the State of Texas, abides by that standard. For more information about the alcohol policy in the United States, visit the NIAAA’s Alcohol Policy Information System website. 

Federal Drug/Alcohol Offenses

• Manufacture, Distribution, or Dispensing Drugs (includes marijuana)
  • Minimum Punishment: Imprisonment between 180 days and 2 years and/or a fine of $10,000
  • Maximum Punishment: Imprisonment for life or for a term of 10 to 99 years and a fine not to exceed $100,000
• Possession of Drugs (includes marijuana)
  • Minimum Punishment: Imprisonment between 180 days to 2 years and/or a fine of $10,000 or less
  • Maximum Punishment: Imprisonment between 5 to 99 years and a maximum fine of $50,000
• Operation of a Common Carrier under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
  • Minimum Punishment: Fine and/or imprisonment between 1 day to 15 years
  • Maximum Punishment: Imprisonment for up to 15 years and a fine not to exceed $250,000
• Manufacture/Delivery of Controlled Substances (Drugs)
  • Minimum Punishment: Confinement in jail for a term of no less than 180 days and/or fine of $2,000
  • Maximum Punishment: Imprisonment between 10 to 99 years and a fine not to exceed $100,000
• Possession of Controlled Substances (Drugs), Delivery of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana
  • Minimum Punishment: Confinement in jail for a term of not more than 180 days and/or a fine not to exceed $2,000
  • Maximum Punishment: Imprisonment for life or for a term of not more than 99 years nor less than 10 years, and a fine not to exceed $100,000
• Driving While Intoxicated (includes Intoxication from Alcohol, Drugs, or Both)
  • Minimum Punishment: Confinement in jail for a term not more than 180 days nor less than 72 hours and a fine not to exceed $2,000
  • Maximum Punishment: Imprisonment for a term of not more than 10 years nor less than 2 years and a fine up to $4,000 and jail for up to 1 year, or both
• Public Intoxication
  • Minimum Punishment: A fine not to exceed $500
  • Maximum Punishment: Varies with age and number of offenses
• Purchase of Alcohol by a Minor and Consumption/ Possession of Alcohol by a Minor
  • Minimum Punishment: A fine not to exceed $500
  • Maximum Punishment: Varies with number of offenses
• Sale of Alcohol to a Minor
  • A fine not to exceed $4,000 and/or confinement in jail for not more than one year

State of Texas Statutes

 In Texas, the following statutes guide the laws and penalties surrounding illicit drugs and alcohol: 

• Texas Penal Code Sec. 49.02: Being intoxicated in public such that one is a danger to oneself, or others is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500. 
• Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code Sec. 101.31: It is illegal to possess or distribute alcoholic beverages in a dry area. Violation of this law is a Class B misdemeanor and carries a penalty of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days confinement. 
• Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code Sections 106.04, 106.05, and 106.071: The purchase, possession, or consumption of alcoholic beverages by a person under 21 years of age subjects that person to a fine of up to $500 for the first offense and at least $250 up to $2,000 for the second offense and/or 180 days confinement. 
• Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code Sec. 106.06: Furnishing alcoholic beverages to a minor is a Class A misdemeanor and punishable by a fine of up to $4,000 and/or up to one year in jail. 
• Texas Education Code Sec. 37.122: Possession of an intoxicating beverage on the grounds of any public school is a Class C misdemeanor and carries a penalty of up to $500. If found with an open container in the person’s immediate possession, the minimum confinement period extends to six days. 
• Texas Health and Safety Code Sections 481.102-106, 481.115- 118: The illegal distribution, possession, or use of controlled substances may be punished by 180 days to 2 years in prison and/or a fine up to $10,000 (Tex. Health and Safety Code Sec. 481.116b) 
• Texas Health and Safety Code Section 481.112-120: The delivery or possession of controlled substances with the intent to manufacture controlled substances is punishable by a jail term of 10 years to 99 years and a fine not to exceed $100,000.(remove quotation marks) (Tex. Health and Safety Code 481.115f)
• Texas Health and Safety Code Sec. 481.122: The distribution of marijuana to a minor is punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and/or up to a $10,000 fine. 

Texas campuses: Local Laws and Ordinances 

In Texas, the sale of packaged liquor is prohibited on Sunday. Packaged liquor may be sold between 10:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The sale of packaged liquor is prohibited on New Year’s Day, January 2 (when it falls on a Monday), Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and December 26 (when it falls on a Monday). 

Packaged beer and wine can be sold between noon and midnight on Sunday, between 7:00 a.m. and midnight, Monday through Friday, and between 7:00 a.m. and 1:00 a.m. on Saturday. 

Alcoholic beverages may be served in bars and restaurants between noon and midnight on Sunday, between 7:00 a.m. and midnight, Monday through Friday, and between 7:00 a.m. and 1:00 a.m. on Saturday. At certain restaurants, alcoholic beverages may be served with meals beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday. 

Costa Rica: Local Laws and Ordinances

Costa Rica Liquor Laws identify the legal drinking age as 18. Minors, those under 18 years of age, need to know that it is illegal to knowingly:

• Possess alcohol
• Consume alcohol
• Purchase or attempt to purchase alcohol
• Transport alcohol on a public highway when not accompanied by at least one parent or guardian

Under Costa Rica law, it is illegal to drink in public areas such as street, parks, beaches, and sidewalks.

In Costa Rica, a prison sentence of one to three years will be imposed in the following driving under the influence of alcohol cases:

·         For any type of driver, if the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeds 0.75 grams per liter or breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) exceeds 0.38 milligrams per liter

·         For professional drivers or those who received their driver’s license for the first time less than three years ago if the BAC exceeds 0.50 grams per liter or the BrAC exceeds 0.25 milligrams per liter.

Infractions of the state’s alcohol laws can be punishable by fines, probation, and/or jail time. It is a $360 fine for the illegal possession or public consumption of those under the age of 18.

Costa Rica drug laws prohibit possession, sale, manufacture, and distribution of marijuana and other controlled substances (i.e. cocaine, LSD, PCP, hallucinogenic substances, stimulants, narcotics), and possession of drug paraphernalia. There are two laws the regulate drug-related activities, the General Health Law (Law 5395) and the Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Law (Law 8204).

Drug use has been decriminalized in Costa Rica.  The General Health Law prohibits the planting, cultivation, import, export, and trafficking of drugs.  The cultivation, manufacture, storage, transport, distribution, and trafficking of drugs are criminal acts.

The punishment established for all these activities is a prison sentence of between 8 and 15 years.  This is the penalty appliable to anyone who distributes, markets, supplies, manufactures, prepares, refines, processes, extracts, cultivates, produces, transports, stores or sells any of the drugs, substances or products listed in the law or who grows the plants from which these substances or products are obtained, without being legally authorized to do so.  The same punishment is imposed upon anyone who has these drugs, substances, or products in their possession without proper authorization for any of the purposes listed, and anyone who possesses or sells seeds that can be germinated or other natural products that are used to produce the listed drugs.

University Disciplinary Sanctions for Violations of Policy

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Texas Tech University will impose sanctions on students and employees for violations of Texas Tech University policies and standards of conduct which may include suspension, expulsion, and/or termination of employment. Students who are also employees may also be held accountable under both student and employee policies. 

Students

The Texas Tech Office of Student Conduct (OSC) is responsible for cases of Code of Student Conduct violations and may issue sanctions. The OSC is in the Student Union Building (SUB), Suite 307 (1502 Akron Ave. Lubbock, TX 79409)  and can be reached by calling 806-742-1714. Sanctions for violations of the Code of Student Conduct are proportionate to the severity of the violation and to the cumulative conduct history of the student found responsible. Common sanctions for alcohol and drug related violations include participation in an alcohol or drug education workshop and/or the completion of a drug and alcohol assessment through Risk Intervention and Safety Education (RISE) or Student Health Services at Texas Tech University, mandated counseling or substance abuse treatment, eviction from on-campus housing, and could include probation, suspension, or expulsion from the university.

*Law School and Professional School Students may enter at a step higher.

*Law School and Professional School Students may enter at a step higher.

For a complete explanation of the General Conduct Sanction Grid, visit GeneralConductSanctionGrid.pdf (ttu.edu) (https://www.depts.ttu.edu/studentconduct/GeneralConductSanctionGrid.pdf)

Amnesty Policy

The university may, at its discretion, offer amnesty for conduct violations to: 

• Individual student(s) who may have committed a violation at the time of an incident or
• Individual student(s) who offers help to those who need medical assistance. 

If amnesty is offered, educational options may be explored, but no conduct actions or sanctions will result. 

Abuse of amnesty provisions may result in a violation of the Code of Student Conduct. Amnesty does not preclude students from being charged with allegations of misconduct related to the Actions against Members of the University Community and Others section of the Code. The Code of Student Conduct amnesty provisions do not influence criminal proceedings or charges. Amnesty does not preclude students from being required to meet with university staff or to participate in conditions such as counseling, alcohol assessments, and other requirements. The Office for Student Civil Rights and Sexual Misconduct may also assist with questions related to amnesty provisions, but the final determination regarding amnesty will be made by the ADOS/SD of the Office of Student Conduct or designee or the Title IX Coordinator or designee in Title IX cases.

Employees

Staff employees found in violation of university policy will be addressed under TTU System OP 07.07: Employee Conduct, Discipline, and Terminations. An employee who violates the standards established in this policy may be subject to coaching, corrective action, suspension with or without pay, administrative leave, and/or termination from Texas Tech. 

Faculty employees found in violation of university policy will be addressed under TTU OP 32.04: Conduct of University Faculty. A violation of the standards established in this policy may result in the assessment of a penalty ranging from an oral reprimand to termination from Texas Tech. In the case of non-tenured and non-tenure track faculty members, all disciplinary procedures other than non-renewal of appointment, termination, or denial of tenure will be governed by TTU OP 70.31. Tenured faculty members’ termination will be controlled by the tenure policy (OP 32.01). 

Resources and Institutional Operating Policies on Alcohol and Other Drug Use and Abuse

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• 2025-2026 Student Code of Conduct
• 2025-2026 Student Handbook Community Policies
• Clery Compliance: Annual Security & Fire Safety Reports (ASFSRs) and Annual Security Reports (ASRs)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Human Resources
• Office of Equal Opportunity
• Office of Student Conduct
• Residence Hall Policies and Procedures
• Risk Intervention & Safety Education (RISE)
• Student Health Services
• TTU OP 10.22: Concealed Carry of Handguns on Campus
• TTU OP 32.01: Promotion and Tenure Standards and Procedures
• TTU OP 32.04: Conduct of University Faculty
• TTU OP 34.26: Faculty-Led Study Abroad Programs
• TTU OP 40.06: Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act
• TTU OP 60.15: Smoke-Free and Tobacco-Free Environment
• TTU OP 61.02: Use of University Grounds, Facilities, and Amplification Equipment
• TTU OP 70.20: Conducting Criminal Background Checks for Employment Purposes
• TTU OP 70.31: Employee Conduct, Coaching, Corrective Action, and Termination
  • TTUS OP 07.07: Employee Conduct, Coaching, Corrective Action, and Termination
• TTU OP 70.33: Employee Assistance Program
• TTU OP 70.35: Drug and Alcohol Testing for Safety- and Security- Sensitive Positions
• TTU OP 72.05: Expenditures for Official Functions, Business Meetings, and Entertainment

 

DFSCA Biennial Review covering academic years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025.

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Oversight Responsibility

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Biennial Review Committee was headed by the Office of Institutional Compliance and was comprised of the following members.  Ad hoc members were included as needed.

Claire Nevarez, Clery Compliance Officer

Tyler Patrick, Deputy Compliance Officer

Kim Simon, Chief Compliance Officer

Angela Chisum, Staff Senate President

Dawn Payne, Equal Employment Opportunity Director

Eric Maki, University Recreation Managing Director

Grant Stovall, Senior Associate Athletics Director

Jawana Green, Office of Student Conduct Senior Director

Serena Shade, Risk Intervention and Safety Education (RISE) Senior Director

Todd Phillips, Human Resources Administration Senior Director

Lisa Viator, Student Counseling Center Managing Director

Faith Geistweidt, Student Government Association President

Tammy Diaz, Student Health Services Nurse Manager

William (Buddy) Gerber, Center for Students in Addiction Recovery Director

 

Introduction

Texas Tech is a public, co-educational research university located in the city of Lubbock, Texas, a city with a population of more than 260,000. Established in 1923, it is part of the Texas Tech University System.

Texas Tech currently has five (5) regional campus and academic sites around the state of Texas - TTU at DFW, TTU at El Paso, TTU at Highland Lakes, TTU School of Veterinary Medicine, and TTU at Waco - and an international location in San Jose, Costa Rica. Each of the regional and international campus locations report alcohol and drug-related violations to the Office of Institutional Compliance and the Office of Student Conduct.

This DFSCA Biennial Review does not pertain to Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) in Lubbock, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, or any regional TTUHSC teaching sites. The DFSCA and Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Programs (DAAPP) for each Health Sciences Center campus is on their respective websites.

Texas Tech University is committed to fostering a campus community that promotes the overall wellbeing of its community members and is free from illegal drugs and alcohol abuse. All campus community members should be aware that the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol on Texas Tech University property or as part of any Texas Tech University activity is prohibited by law and Texas Tech University policy. 

Questions about this Biennial Review should be directed to the Texas Tech Clery Compliance Officer at clerycompliance@ttu.edu or by calling 806-834-1884.

Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act’s (DFSCA) Drug and Alcohol Prevention Program (DAAPP) and Biennial Review

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Regulations (34 CFR Part 86) of the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) requires that, as a condition of receiving funds or any other form of financial assistance under any federal program, an institution of higher education must adopt and implement a program designed to prevent the possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol by students and employees. 

 At a minimum, Texas Tech University must annually distribute the following in writing to all students and employees:             

• Standards of conduct that clearly prohibit the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees; 
• A description of the legal sanctions under local, state, or federal law for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol; 
• A description of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and alcohol abuse; 
  A description of any drug or alcohol counseling, treatment, rehabilitation, or reentry programs that are available to employees and students; and 
• A clear statement that the institution will impose sanctions on students and employees and a description of those sanctions, up to and including expulsion or termination of employment and referral for prosecution, for violations of the standards of conduct or law. 

The DFSCA also requires a biennial review that includes the following objectives:

• Determine the effectiveness of, and to implement any needed changes to, the AOD prevention programs
• Ensure that campuses enforce the disciplinary sanction for violating standards of conduct consistently

Texas Tech University Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Policy

Texas Tech University has enacted TTU OP 40.06 (Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act) to ensure understanding of and standardized procedures in compliance with the provisions of the Drug-Free School and Communities Act, as amended. 

TTU OP 40.06: describes the:

• Authority of how Texas Tech’s policy on drug and alcohol abuse prohibits the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of alcohol and illicit drugs by employees and students on Texas Tech property or as a part of any officially sponsored Texas Tech activities.
• Implementation of the policy to create an environment for employees and students that is free from illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol. This includes a biennial review of the drug and alcohol prevention program to determine its effectiveness, implementing changes if they are needed, and ensuring that sanctions are consistently enforced.
• Penalties for violation of the policy.

Annual Report Notifications

In addition to TTU OP 40.06, Texas Tech’s Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program (DAAPP) has been created and annual notification of Texas Tech University’s DAAPP is distributed to all current students and employees each semester (fall, spring, and summer) through Texas Tech email. New employees receive notification at New Employee Orientation and from Human Resources electronically during the onboarding process. New students receive notification electronically upon enrollment. Employees and students can access the DAAPP and the accompanying Biennial Reports through the regularly updated Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act website.

Texas Tech University’s Office of Institutional Compliance also produces Annual Security Reports (ASRs) and Annual Security and Fire Safety Reports (ASFSRs) which describe campus policies and procedures surrounding safety and include statistics related to Clery Act crimes. On-campus alcohol and drug referrals and arrests are part of the statistics documented in the ASRs and ASFSRs. These reports are campus specific and are emailed annually to all students and employees by October 1st. All currently enrolled students, employees, and prospective students and prospective employees are entitled to request and receive a copy of the applicable ASR or ASFSR. They are also available online and can be requested in person at the Texas Tech Police Department (413 Flint Ave., Lubbock, TX).

Strengths, Opportunities, and Recommendations 

• Strengths: 
  • Compliance with the DFSCA was moved under the Office for Institutional Compliance which created the opportunity to determine the Texas Tech University community’s level of understanding related to AOD policies and resources by someone who is knowledgeable with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act.
  • The collaboration necessary to produce a successful biennial review have previously been established by the Clery Compliance Officer so more progress will be able to be made moving forward than in the past.
• Opportunities for improvement:
  • The results of the survey distributed to the Texas Tech University shows that education and promotion about current policies and resources needs to be prioritized at the campus-wide level to ensure faculty, staff, and students understand the policies they are being held to and the resources that are available to them.  Based on the number of available alcohol-free and drug-free programming available to students, marketing promoting the events needs to be increased.
  • Through conversations that arose from the biennial review, it was determined that the regional campuses are not aware of the AOD-related policies and resources that are available to the students at their sites. Regional campuses tend to be disconnected from the Lubbock campus, but ensuring continuity of the faculty, staff, and student will be a focus of the next biennial review.
• Recommendations for the 2024-2026 Biennium
  • Meet with departments across campus (Office of Equal Opportunity, Risk Intervention and Safety Education [RISE], and Human Resources) to enhance education about alcohol and drug related programs, policies and resources to faculty, staff, and students.
  • Increase communication and awareness of resources and virtual programming to faculty, staff, and students at regional campuses.

Campus-Wide Biennial Review Process 

Texas Tech University conducted a biennial review of both students’ and employees’ knowledge and awareness of alcohol and drug-related policies, prevention programs, and the number of alcohol and drug related referrals and arrests for the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 academic years. 

In November 2024, Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act compliance (including the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Programs and biennial review) was moved under the Office of Institutional Compliance as it directly pertains to the department’s Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act compliance requirements.  The Office of Institutional Compliance determined that the focus of its first biennial review should be to determine the baseline of where the Texas Tech University community is in understanding AOD policies, available resources, and prevention programs.  The results will describe objectives for future DFSCA Biennial Reviews.

Objective 1: Evaluate students’ knowledge and understanding of AOD-related policies and available prevention resources.

Process: A SurveyMonkey questionnaire was developed and distributed through email requests and TechAnnounce promotion to gather information.  The questionnaire consisted of 2 likert-scale questions and 10 questions that had “yes”, “no”, or “unsure” options as answers and was available to be completed from November 6, 2025, through December 5, 2025.  Students were able to provide their email address if they wanted to be contacted about available drug/alcohol resources.  The eight email addresses provided were sent to RISE (Risk Intervention and Safety Education) for information distribution.

Fifty-seven students completed the TTU Student Drug and Alcohol Policies & Procedures Survey.

Likert Question: How familiar are you with the TTU Code of Student Conduct prohibitions on drug and alcohol use? 

Average Answer: 65 (on a scale from 0-100)

Question: Are you aware that TTU’s Student Code of Conduct prohibits the unlawful or unauthorized possession, use, distribution, delivery, or sale of alcohol and/or public intoxication and the possession, use sharing, furnishing or distribution of illegal drugs, intoxicants, controlled substances and/or drug paraphernalia?

YES: 87.72%                                      NO: 8.77%                              UNSURE: 3.51%

Question: Are you aware that TTU’s Amnesty Policy allows the University to offer amnesty to individual student(s) for conduct violations who 1) May have committed a violation at the time of an incident or 2) Offers help to those who need medical assistance and if amnesty is offered, educational options may be explored, but no conduct actions or sanctions will result?

YES: 66.07%                                      NO: 23.21%                            UNSURE: 10.71%

Question: Are you aware that all local, state and federal laws pertaining to drugs and alcohol apply to all students while on campus, including those living in the residence halls?

YES: 89.29%                                      NO: 5.36%                              UNSURE: 5.36%

Question: Are you aware that West Village B is the only residence hall that allows alcohol if the student is over 21 years of age?

YES: 56.14%                                      NO: 42.11%                            UNSURE: 1.75%

Question: Are you aware that the Office of Student Conduct investigates and issues sanctions for alcoholic beverages and narcotics or drug violations of the Student Code of Conduct including educational opportunities, reprimands, probation, suspension, and expulsion?

YES: 80.70%                                      NO: 17.54%                            UNSURE: 1.75%

Likert Question: How familiar are you with TTU’s drug and alcohol related education and programming resources?

Average Answer: 58 (on a scale from 0-100)

Question: Are you aware that TTU provides programs for education, impact, and growth surrounding alcohol and drug use?

YES: 79.63%                                      NO: 20.37%                            UNSURE: 0%

Question: Are you aware that TTU provides alcohol-free programming free to students with their TTU Student ID?

YES: 64.81%                                      NO: 33.33%                            UNSURE: 1.85%

Question: Are you aware that TTU’s Crisis HelpLine (806-742-5555) is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to assist students experiencing a mental health or interpersonal violence crisis?

YES: 85.19%                                      NO: 12.96%                            UNSURE: 1.85%

Question: Are you aware that TTU’s Raider Ride provides students with on-demand rides on campus from 6:00 pm-2:45 am, 7 days a week (while classes are in session) with a valid student ID through the TechRide app?

YES: 77.78%                                      NO: 16.67%                            UNSURE: 5.56%

Question: Are you aware that TTU can help connect you with on-campus and community resources pertaining to alcohol and drug use and misuse?

YES: 92.59%                                      NO: 7.41%                              UNSURE: 0%

Objective 2: Evaluate employees’ knowledge and understanding of AOD-related policies and available resources.

Process: A SurveyMonkey questionnaire was developed and distributed through email requests and TechAnnounce promotion to gather information.  The questionnaire consisted of 2 likert-scale questions and 11 questions that had “yes”, “no”, or “unsure” options as answers and was available to be completed from November 6, 2025, through December 5, 2025.  Employees were able to provide their email address if they wanted to be contacted about available drug/alcohol resources.  The three email addresses provided were sent to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Human Resources for information distribution.

One hundred and thirty-one employees completed the TTU Employee Drug and Alcohol Policies & Procedures Survey.

Likert Question: How familiar are you with TTU policies and sanctions regarding alcohol and drug use?

Average Answer: 60 (on a scale from 0-100)

Question: Are you aware that Texas Tech University System Regulation 07.07 Employee Conduct, Coaching, Corrective Action and Termination (TTUS Reg. 07.07) addresses being unfit for duty, including being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or refusing to submit to a drug or alcohol test?

YES: 77.86%                                      NO: 14.50%                            UNSURE: 7.63%

Question: Are you aware that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance, or any substance, the possession or distribution of which is regulated by federal or Texas law, except where the manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use are in accordance with the laws of each is defined as a breach of trust for TTU faculty?

YES: 83.21%                                      NO: 10.69%                            UNSURE: 6.11%

Question: Are you aware that all employees are required to notify their University’s human resources department of any indictment, criminal conviction or deferred adjudication, no later than three (3) calendar days after such has been rendered (not required for minor traffic offenses, unless one of the Employee’s job duties includes or involves use of a University vehicle) (TTUS Reg. 07.07)?

YES: 58.02%                                      NO: 33.59%                            UNSURE: 8.40%

Question: Are you aware that violations of misconduct could result in coaching, written corrective action, suspension without pay, or demotion or reassignment?

YES: 91.60%                                      NO: 5.34%                              UNSURE: 3.05%

Question: Are you aware that university funds may not be used to purchase alcohol?

YES: 89.31%                                      NO: 4.58%                              UNSURE: 6.11%

Likert Question: How familiar are you with TTU’s drug and alcohol related benefits and resources?

Average Answer: 46 (on a scale from 0-100)

Question: Are you aware that the Texas Employees Group Benefits Program (GPB) insurance program, administered by the Employees Retirement Systems of Texas, administers benefits for Texas Tech employees and retirees and provides coverage for substance abuse?

YES: 39.20%                                      NO: 52.00%                            UNSURE: 8.80%

Question: Are you aware that coaching and corrective action may be provided to identify conduct that is failing to meet expectations and to allow the employee a reasonable opportunity to improve deficiencies and maintain satisfactory work performance (TTUS Reg 07.07)?

YES: 70.40%                                      NO: 23.20%                            UNSURE: 6.40%

Question: Are you aware of the many substance abuse resources available to Texas Tech University employees in the Lubbock community?

YES: 46.77%                                      NO: 43.55%                            UNSURE: 9.68%

Question: Are you aware that the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can provide substance use and abuse counseling, referrals, recovery support, and reentry counseling at the TTU Health Sciences Center?

YES: 72.58%                                      NO: 22.58%                            UNSURE: 4.84%

Question: Are you aware that EAP Counseling services are private and confidential, records are separate and not part of an employee’s personnel file, and that information is not released to the employer or supervisor?

YES: 83.87%                                      NO: 14.52%                            UNSURE: 1.61%

Question: Are you aware that EAP Counseling services can be used for TTU employees and their dependents and if more than the 8 included sessions are needed, the Counseling Center can file insurance and also accepts self-pay?

YES: 74.40%                                      NO: 21.60%                            UNSURE: 4.00%

Campus-Wide Surveys Administered 

The Mental Health and Well-Being Topical Module provides colleges and universities an opportunity to understand and address current concerns about students’ emotional, psychological, and social wellness. Results help institutions promote well-being by purposefully creating supportive environments and providing necessary resources for students to thrive. This module assesses students’ experiences related to a range of dimensions for mental health and well-being. It also examines sources of support and explores students’ perceptions about campus resources.

Texas Tech University Lubbock Campus administered the NSSE before Spring Break 2025.  NSSE sends out the surveys directly based on a population file Texas Tech shared of first year and senior students.

Question: If you were to experience substance abuse, would you know how to get help at your institution?

Answer:

WISHES Survey

The Wellbeing Improvement Survey for Higher Education Settings (WISHES) provides colleges and universities with timely and actionable data to adapt and improve institutional norms, structures, and processes so all students can thrive and flourish. 

Texas Tech administers the WISHES survey twice a semester and is open to all undergraduate students.  The survey is administered through an internal Qualtrics account and takes about 10 minutes to complete.

Question: In the past 2 weeks, how many times have you had 5 or more drinks in a day (for men)/ 4 or more drinks in a day (for women)?

Answer:

The columns represent the number of people who selected each number as the total time they’d had 5 (men)/4 (women) drinks in a day in the last two weeks.

 

Amnesty 

As stated in the Texas Tech University Student Code of Conduct, the University will not take any disciplinary action against a student who in good faith reports being the victim of, or witness to, an incident of Sexual Misconduct for a violation of the Code of Student Conduct occurring at or near the time of the incident, regardless of the location at which the incident occurred or the outcome of the Grievance Process regarding the incident. 

Amnesty will be extended to the Complainant, Respondent, and witnesses who provide statements during an investigation and disclose their own personal drug or alcohol use. Amnesty will not be extended in situations where substances were used to facilitate sexual misconduct. Abuse of amnesty provisions can result in a violation of the Code of Student Conduct. The Code of Student Conduct amnesty provisions do not influence criminal proceedings or charges. 

The University may provide educational options to students to address any concerning behavior as part of the afforded amnesty or in lieu of conduct proceedings. Amnesty does not preclude students from being required to meet with University staff and to participate in conditions such as counseling, alcohol assessments, and other requirements. 

Alcohol and Other Drugs Arrests and Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

The following tables show drug and alcohol arrests and referrals from all TTU campuses during the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 academic years.  Per Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act compliance, the data represented reflects calendar years represented in the Annual Security Report for each campus.

Texas Tech Police Department has reported that there are zero reported deaths involving alcohol or drugs on the campuses in which they have jurisdiction in the academic years included in this Biennial Review.

LUBBOCK CAMPUS

Violation- Liquor Law Arrests

Violation- Liquor Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

Violation- Drug Law Arrests

Violation- Drug Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

On-campus total is a combination of incidents that are reported to have occurred within  on-campus student housing facilities and other on-campus locations. Example: 50 total on-campus incidents= 21 housing incidents + 29 campus incidents

Statistics denoted with an asterisk (*) may include crime that occurred during student travel

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY COSTA RICA CAMPUS

Violation- Liquor Law Arrests

Violation- Liquor Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

Violation- Drug Law Arrests

Violation- Drug Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY AT DFW CAMPUS 

Texas Tech Univeresity at DFW was not open in 2022.

Violation- Liquor Law Arrests

Violation- Liquor Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

Violation- Drug Law Arrests

 Violation- Drug Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY AT EL PASO CAMPUS

Violation- Liquor Law Arrests

 Violation- Liquor Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

Violation- Drug Law Arrests

 Violation- Drug Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY AT HIGHLAND LAKES CAMPUS

Violation- Liquor Law Arrests

Violation- Liquor Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

 Violation- Drug Law Arrests

Violation- Drug Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

 TTU SCHOOL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE CAMPUS

Violation- Liquor Law Arrests

Violation- Liquor Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

Violation-Drug Law Arrests

Violation- Drug Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY AT WACO CAMPUS

Violation- Liquor Law Arrests

Violation- Liquor Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

Violation- Drug Law Arrests

Violation- Drug Law Violations Referred for Disciplinary Action

Employee drug and alcohol arrests and referrals

Drug and alcohol arrests and referrals from all campuses the Office of Equal Opportunity adjudicates employee-related reports and referrals and has reported that there were zero drug and alcohol referrals or arrests in the calendar years included in this Biennial Review.

Statistics from TTU Lubbock Campus AUDIT-C usage

AUDIT-C is a questionnaire filled out at a student’s first visit and then annually to determine levels of alcohol consumption, as of January 1, 2025. (It may be administered at each visit if the appointment is regarding an alcohol consumption concern or at the discretion of the clinician at any time.)  Prior to January 1, 2025, AUDIT-C was administered at every patient visit. Education is provided by the clinician regarding responsible alcohol consumption and counselors are available for further treatment

AUDIT-C screening was performed less in the 2024-2025 academic year due to an IT outage that occurred in the fall semester.  

August 2024-May 2025 - 3,155 students completed AUDIT-C

August 2023-May 2024- 9,849 students completed AUDIT-C

            A total score of 4 or below (out of 12) suggests a lower risk of alcohol consumption.

            A total score of 5 to 8 (out of 12) suggests medium or harmful alcohol consumption.

            A total score of 9 or greater (out of 12) indicates a concern of alcohol dependence.

Alcohol- and Drug-free Programming Available for Students

University Student Housing (Lubbock campus only)

University Student Housing (USH)’s mission is to empower students through innovation, service, and civility and its values include service, stewardship, innovation, inclusion, and collaboration. The student employees living within the residence halls provide various levels of programming to ensure the mission and values are portrayed to those students who reside on-campus.

During the 2023-2024 academic year, USH held 43 passive events that provided alcohol and other drug education to the students within the halls.  With information formatted in ways to grab students’ attention, such as “Stop!... and Listen…”, “Concerning Baggage”, and “How Much is Too Much?”, they were able to get the information to 2,025 students.  Twenty events including “Mafia, Mocktails & Mystery”, “Casino Night”, “Sip Smart and Stay Sharp”, and “Anti-heroin Night” brought 1,249 together to learn about alcohol and drug safety.  Events such as “UFC Watch Night”, “Suns Out, Guns Out” group workout, and “Winter Wonderland Dance” provided 247 students with an alcohol or drug-free alternative event on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday evening.  The six late night events that were hosted all started or ended later than ten in the evening.

During the 2024-2025 academic year, USH held 40 passive events that provided alcohol and other drug education to the students within the halls.  Campaigns such as “Life is a Highway: Don’t Ride It Drunk”, “A ‘Shot’ of Information”, and “Think Before You Drink” were aimed at presenting information to 1,880 students.  Thirty-two events focused primarily on alcohol and drug education and brought 1,349 students together.  Some of the events included “Oh No, He Didn’t!: Red Flag Jeopardy”, “Root Beer and Alcohol Safety Trivia”, and “Cookies Against Crack”.  The late-night events (events starting or ending after 10:00 pm and hosted on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday to provide an alternative alcohol and drug event) brough 136 students together.  The seven events included various game nights, a haunted tour of the TTU campus and “Donuts Not Drugs”.

Center for Students in Addiction Recovery (Lubbock campus only)

The Center for Students in Addiction Recovery (CSAR) believes in the power of education and the ability of students in addiction recovery to transform their lives. To facilitate success, the CSAR utilizes a comprehensive approach which includes financial, academic, and recovery support in a compassionate environment. Through dynamic connections, the CSAR fosters personal growth, academic achievement, and increased awareness through the interconnected community.

The following alcohol- and drug-free events were hosted during the Fall 2023-Spring 2024 and Fall 2024- Spring 2025 academic years.

Student Activities Board (Lubbock campus only)

The Student Activities Board (SAB) hosts alcohol- and drug-free events throughout the year, free for students with their TTU Student ID.

Late Night Movies

In collaboration with Student Union & Activities and Hospitality Services, the Student Activities Board (SAB) hosts a movie at 10:00 pm every Thursday and Friday during academic semesters. Students who attend the movie receive free popcorn and a drink.

National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week

Colleges and universities across the country sponsor programming, educational events, and social activities aimed at raising awareness of alcohol-related issues on collegiate campuses.  The focus is to help students better understand alcohol abuse, impaired driving, and making healthier decisions surrounding alcohol.

Hosted annually in October, SAB collaborates with offices across campus to provide interactive activities centered around alcohol safety and education.  In Fall 2023, their event Ok-Sober Fest was attended by 123 students and 60 students attended the Alcohol Awareness Week Kick-Off event in Fall 2024.

Texas Tech University Recreation Center (Lubbock campus only)

The TTU Recreation Center’s goal is to enrich the lives of Red Raiders by building community through dynamic leadership, leisure, recreation, and wellness opportunities. As a leader in collegiate recreation, University Recreation ensures that their hours reflect the interests of the community who wish to live a healthy lifestyle, providing alternate options on Thursday and Friday evenings and during the day on Saturday.

Academic Year: Fall 2023- Spring 2024

Academic Year: Fall 2024- Spring 2025

Texas Tech University Student Involvement 

Students wishing to form, register, or reinstatement a university-recognized student organization at any campus must attend Risk Management trainings through the Office of Student Involvement.  Risk Management sessions include best practices surrounding alcohol use.  In the Fall 2023-Spring 2024 academic year, 1,060 students attended the Risk Management session and 1,122 students attended it in the Fall 2024-Spring 2025 academic year.

Texas Tech University Risk Intervention & Safety Education (RISE)

The Risk Intervention & Safety Education office (RISE) helps students live vital, meaningful lives through prevention education and holistic well-being strategies.  Through hosting presentations, leading workshops, working resource tables, coaching students about their substance use and wellness using individualized harm reduction strategies, and providing resources, RISE plays a vital role at Texas Tech University in educating students about alcohol and drug usage. 

RISE’s alcohol and drug education presentations can be requested by any Texas Tech University campus and can be tailored to specific audiences.

The information below reflects the number of events hosted and the number of students who participated in RISE’s events for the Fall 2022-Spring/Summer 2023 and Fall 2023-Spring/Summer 2024 academic years.  Around 90% of their events and presentations include alcohol and other drug education and prevention.

 

Policies for Students

Student Code of Conduct

The Texas Tech University Student Handbook and Code of Student Conduct outline behavioral standards developed by the university community for students and student organizations and the related procedures for addressing misconduct. The university may impose disciplinary charges against any student who violates the Texas Tech University Code of Student Conduct and/or local, state and federal laws concerning controlled substances. 

The policies regarding the use and abuse of alcohol and drugs are listed in Part I, Section B.3 and B.4 of the Student Code of Conduct and state that Texas Tech University specifically prohibits:

• B.3. Unlawful or unauthorized possession, use, distribution, delivery, or sale of alcohol and/or public intoxication; or operating a vehicle while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol. 
• B.4. Possession, use, sharing, furnishing or distribution of illegal drugs, intoxicants, controlled substances and/or drug paraphernalia; including the distribution, use or possession of prescription medications contrary to a valid prescription; being under the influence of illegal drugs, intoxicants, and/or controlled substances.

University Student Housing Policies

Students residing in on-campus housing must follow the alcohol and drug policies outlined in the Student Code of Conduct. In addition, students may possess a maximum of two empty alcohol containers (i.e., beer bottle, wine, or champagne bottle) which must be cleaned and used for decoration only. Collections of alcohol-related containers are not permitted. Alcohol use for culinary purposes is still considered a violation of the alcoholic beverages and alcohol containers policies. Students over the age of 21 residing in West Village Building B may have alcohol in the apartment if all residents and guests are over the age of 21.

Texas Tech Department of Intercollegiate Athletics Drug Policy 

Student-Athlete Expectations

All student-athletes acknowledge by signature to follow the Texas Tech Athletic Department Student-Athlete Expectations (“Student-Athlete Expectations”) before they can participate in Athletics. This document states “the use of banned and/or illegal Drugs, including marijuana, and non-prescribed prescription medications, are prohibited at all times.” Failure to follow the Student-Athlete Expectations can result in dismissal from the team by the Head Coach and loss/reduction of a scholarship. 

Illegal “Drugs”

The use of Drugs made illegal by local, state or federal law or by University policy is strictly prohibited. 

Pre-Participation Physical Drug Screen for New Athletes

All athletes new to Texas Tech (incoming freshmen and transfers) will be screened for Drugs as part of the pre-participation physical. Any positive results may be reviewed with the athlete, the head coach, Athletics Director, and sport supervisor. The athlete may be referred to counseling for a risk assessment. 

Banned Substances List

All student-athletes are subject to Drug screenings to permit testing for any or all of the substances that appear on the NCAA list of banned Drugs. The current list is located on the NCAA website (2025-26 NCAA Banned Substances). The list is subject to change and the student-athlete shall be held accountable for all banned Drug classes on the current list.

Self-Referral- SAFE HARBOR

The Department encourages each student-athlete to seek help about concerns he or she may have regarding a potential substance abuse problem. Any student-athlete who has a concern about substance abuse may notify the Drug Testing Coordinator (Sr. Associate Athletics Director for Sports Medicine or designee) of such concerns and receive education, substance use monitoring, and a referral to counseling. The first such self-referral shall not constitute a failed Drug test, provided that the self-referral is made before notice of a pending Drug test. If a student-athlete notifies a staff member, the staff member must contact the Drug Testing Coordinator no less than 5 business days of such self-referral. 

Frequency of Testing

Tests will be administered on a random basis and may or may not be announced in advance. Tests may be administered at any time throughout the year. The Director of Athletics and the Sr. Associate Athletics Director for Sports Medicine shall determine the number, timing and other procedures for testing. 

Failure of the student-athlete to complete the consent form or submit to an immediate drug test once he/she has been notified will be considered an automatic positive test and all corresponding sanctions will apply. Additionally, the Head Coach may request a test for Drugs at any time. The frequency of these tests will be at the discretion of the Head Coach upon approval by the Athletics Director or his designee. 

Marijuana Use

All student-athletes are expected to abstain from using marijuana for any reason as it is illegal and may severely affect academic and athletic performance. 

A student-athlete who has a positive test for marijuana may be subject to any of the following consequences to be determined by the Head Coach and reviewed by the Athletics Director and/or Sport Administrator: 

First and Second Positives – Possible Consequences 

• Reduced playing or practice time 
• Requirement to participate in campus or community recovery meetings or other educational offerings 
• Requirement to do community service; commitment time; extra study hall time 
• Loss of complimentary tickets 

Beginning at 3rd positive and beyond to include any of the above plus: 

• Suspension (temporary practice/game and team activities) 
• Loss and/or reduction of scholarship 
• Removal from team 

Repeated positives may increase the number of consequences or increase the length of any suspension. 

Any positive drug test for marijuana will be reported to the Head Coach, Athletics Director and Sport Supervisor. The Head Coach should consult with Sports Medicine if there is a concern regarding substance abuse and related mental and medical health concerns. 

After five positive drug tests for marijuana, then a conference with the Head Coach, Sport Administrator, Sr. Associate AD/Sports Medicine, and Director of Clinical Psychology will be scheduled to review whether additional services are needed or if further participation will be allowed. 

The purpose of this policy is to curb the use of marijuana by strengthening the ability of each sport to manage student-athletes who have a positive drug test for marijuana. This policy is intended to supplement and potentially be more stringent than the NCAA, Big 12 and University policy and would be in addition to any potential legal consequences. 

Remedial Action and Penalties for Positive Drug Test Results (excluding marijuana)

Upon a student-athlete’s first positive drug test: 

• The Head Coach, Athletics Director, Sport Supervisor, Sport Team Physician and Compliance Office, will be notified (Notification of positive test results received after normal business hours will occur the first business day after the receipt of the positive result.) A parent or legal guardian may be notified at the discretion of TTU. 
• After notification, the student-athlete will immediately be suspended from required team practice and competition. 

At the discretion of the head coach, the student-athlete may be reinstated to practice and competition upon completion of the following: 

1. Meet with an assigned counselor to complete a standardized risk assessment. 
2. Submit to a follow-up drug test (as outlined under the Follow-up Testing and Monitoring subsection below); and have a zero level of substance in his/her body. 

If the student-athlete has a second positive test result: 

• The Head Coach, Athletics Director, Sport Supervisor, Sport Team Physician and Compliance Office, will be notified (Notification of positive test results received after normal business hours will occur the first business day after the receipt of the positive result.) A parent or legal guardian may be notified at the discretion of TTU. 
• After notification, the student-athlete will immediately be suspended from required team practice and competition. 

The Head Coach may at his/her discretion, seek the reinstatement of the student-athlete to his/her team, but any such reinstatement requires written prior approval by the Athletics Director and only after completion of the above criteria (A-B). 

If the student-athlete has a third or any subsequent positive test result: 

• The Head Coach, Athletics Director, Sport Supervisor, Sport Team Physician and Compliance Office, will be notified (Notification of positive test results received after normal business hours will occur the first business day after the receipt of the positive result.) A parent or legal guardian may be notified at the discretion of TTU. 
• After notification, the student-athlete will immediately be suspended from required team practice and competition. 

The Head Coach may at his/her discretion, seek the reinstatement of the student-athlete to his/her team, but any such reinstatement requires written prior approval by both the Athletics Director and a written majority determination by a subcommittee of the Athletics Council, and only after completion of the above criteria (A-B). 

The Athletics Council Subcommittee will consist of 3 members of the Athletics Council appointed by the Chair of the Athletics Council. 

Follow up Testing and Monitoring

Once a student athlete has tested positive for Drugs (excluding marijuana), he or she will be tested weekly to monitor levels. The student-athlete will remain suspended until his/her levels reach zero. Any increase in the level may be considered reuse and result in continued suspension. Determination of reuse will be made in consultation with the lab and the team physician. Once the student athlete’s level has reached zero, the frequency of testing will be determined by the Drug Testing Coordinator with consultation from the counselor and any further positives will constitute an additional positive.

Policies for Employees 

Texas Tech University System Regulation 07.07: Employee Conduct, Coaching, Corrective Action, and Termination

General employee conduct states that all employees are expected to understand and conduct themselves in accordance with the performance criteria for their particular job and with all rules, procedures, and standards of conduct established by the System, University, and the Employee’s department or unit. An Employee who does not fulfill the responsibilities set out by such performance criteria, rules, procedures, and standards of conduct, or who violates the standards established in this regulation, may be subject to coaching, corrective action, and/or termination. Misconduct, specifically listed in TTUS 07.07, includes ‘being unfit for duty, including being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or refusing to submit to a drug or alcohol test”.  

Texas Tech University Operating Policy and Procedure 32.04: Conduct of University Faculty

Each faculty, staff, and/or student employee is required to notify the university of any criminal drug conviction no later than five days after such a conviction. *In accordance with Section 03.02.2, Regents’ Rules.

Texas Tech University Operating Policy and Procedure 34.26: Faculty-Led Study Abroad Programs

In accordance with Texas Tech policy, TTU funds may not be used to purchase alcohol. Faculty and students of legal age in the study abroad location may purchase and consume alcohol with their own funds. Faculty may not purchase alcohol for students.

Texas Tech University Operating Policy and Procedure 70.35: Drug and Alcohol Testing for Safety- and Security- Sensitive Positions

The purpose of this Operating Policy/Procedure (OP) is to establish programs designed to help prevent accidents and injuries resulting from the misuse of alcohol or the use of controlled substances by applicants for and employees in security-sensitive positions and drivers of commercial motor vehicles. It is also the intent of this OP to comply with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations requiring drug and alcohol testing for employees in safety-sensitive functions.

Available Resources

The following resources are available to all students and TTU employees within the United States. For those at the Costa Rica campus, please contact Adrianne Pacheco Payne (Director of Student Life & Chief Compliance Officer at adriapac@ttu.edu) to determine if a Lubbock campus or Costa Rica campus resource is the best avenue for assistance.

• Students 
  • Risk Intervention & Safety Education (RISE) | Drane Hall 247, Lubbock, TX | 806-742-2110 
    • Provides a wide range of alcohol and drug education initiatives, including interactive workshops, one-on-one wellness coaching, substance-free campus events, and administration of the required prevention education course for all incoming first-year and transfer students. In addition to the mandatory online course, students have access to specialized support programs such as:
  • Raider Restart for Alcohol and Raider Restart for Cannabis Use – Individual coaching sessions focused on harm-reduction strategies and healthier decision-making.
  • BASICS for Alcohol – Evidence-based sessions available to any student seeking to reduce the negative impacts of alcohol use.
  • Student Health Services | 1003 Flint Ave., Lubbock, TX | 806-743-2848 
    • Located in the Student Wellness Center
  • AUDIT-C: Questionnaire filled out at a student’s first visit and then annually to determine levels of alcohol consumption. (May be administered at each visit if the appointment is regarding an alcohol consumption concern or at the discretion of the clinician at any time.)
    • Education is provided by the clinician regarding responsible alcohol consumption
    • Counselors are available for further treatment
  • Student Counseling Center | 1003 Flint Ave. Rm. 201, Lubbock, TX | 806-742-3674
    • Located in the Student Wellness Center 
    • Individual and group counseling 
    • In-person alcohol assessments provided 
  • The Center for Students in Addiction Recovery | 1301 Akron Ave, Lubbock, TX | 806-742-2891  
    • Program that assists students to flourish in recovery through accountability and support 
    • Recovery Residence Options
    • Hosts daily 12- step Recovery-support meetings
    • Celebration of Recovery every Thursday at 7:00 pm when the university is open. Open to the Lubbock community
    • Weekly seminars for students in the Collegiate Recovery Community
    • Sober Tailgates
    • Student organizations to support and engage in Recovery enhancement through service
    • Annual Conference of Addiction, Recovery, and Families
  • University Recreation | 3219 Main St., Lubbock, TX | 806-742-3351 
    • Robert H. Ewalt Student Recreation Center has a diverse line-up of engaging programs and services which promote a healthy lifestyle
  • Student Involvement | 1502 Akron Ave. Ste. 203, Lubbock TX | 806-742-5433
    • Provides annual required Risk Management training surrounding alcohol and drugs and how to implement best practices when alcohol is present at an event
    • Educates on Texas Tech policies and procedures surrounding alcohol and drugs
  • Texas Tech Department of Intercollegiate Athletics Drug Policy & Program
    • As a condition of participation in intercollegiate athletics at Texas Tech, all student-athletes are required to agree, in writing, to comply with the drug policy and the consequences of any positive drug tests.
    • The basic goal of the drug program is education and to deter the use of drugs. However, education and assistance with potential substance use concerns are key components of the program.
    • Education is provided annually on the negative effects of drugs and alcohol on academics and athletics.
• Employees
  • The Texas Employees Group Benefits Program (GPB) 
    • The insurance program administered by the Employees Retirement Systems of Texas (ERS). ERS administers benefits for Texas Tech employees and retirees. Coverage for substance abuse can be found on page 87 of the Master Benefit Plan Document. 
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) | 806-743-1327 or 800-327-0328
    • Can provide substance use and abuse counseling, referrals, recovery support, and reentry counseling at the Tech University Health Sciences Center, 1A300 HSC building 
    • Counseling services are private and confidential, and records are separate and not part of an employee’s personnel file. Information is not released to the employer or supervisor. Confidentiality is regulated by federal guidelines.
    • More information can be found by contacting the EAP directly or through TTU OP 70.33.
  • The Counseling Center at TTUHSC | 806-743-1327 or 800-327-0328 
    • Can file insurance (for Texas Tech University System employees and their dependents), or accepts self-pay, if and when there is a need for sessions beyond the eight of the current EAP benefit
  • HealthSelect Mental Health Virtual Visits 
    • Employees who participate in HealthSelect can consult a licensed mental health professional any day of the week online. A mental health virtual visit is similar to an outpatient visit to a mental health provider’s office, but the visit is conducted online. Licensed mental health professionals can provide treatment for anxiety, depression, insomnia, substance abuse, anger management, and addiction. 
  • HealthSelect Care Management Program 
    • The HealthSelect Care Management Program is a team of dedicated clinicians who take a holistic approach to address all your health concerns and questions rather than trying to treat one condition that may be occurring today. Dedicated mental health clinicians are available for concerns including substance abuse issues. 
    • If you have questions for a clinician about a physical or mental health concern or condition, call BCBSTX toll-free at (800) 252-8039 (TTY:711) between 7 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday, and between 7:00 am and 3:00 pm CT on Saturday to speak with a clinician. 
    • You can get help with a mental health or substance use issue 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you or your covered dependents are in a crisis, call (800) 252-8039 (TTY:711). 
    • The Care Management Program also identifies participants that may benefit from extra support and may reach out to you.
• Community Resources
  • Alcoholics Anonymous | 806-799-0124
  • National Substance Abuse Hotline | 866-210-1303 (hotline for substance misuse and drug addiction)
  • Narcotics Anonymous | 818-773-9999 x771 
    • 12-step meetings for people struggling with addiction. Local meetings available. 
  • Aspire Addiction Recovery Centers | 888-502-3631 
    • Inpatient and outpatient treatment programs for alcohol and drug addiction. 
  • Stages of Recovery | 806-412-4721
    • Provides clients with multilayered addiction treatment plans that support lasting sobriety and personal growth.
  • The Ranch at Dove Tree | 866-568-5661 
    • Specializes in alcohol and drug addiction with co-occurring issues such as depression, anxiety, disordered eating, and trauma.
    • One of the nation’s leaders in alcohol and drug addiction treatment facilities
  • Grace Manor | 806-897-9735
    • Alcohol and drug rehabilitation center that provides residential treatment to adults seeking recovery from addiction.
  • SUSAN (Substance Use Service Assistance Network) | 806-775-3860 
    • Provides financial assistance for treatment/detox, transportation (medical), medical services, personal hygiene, educational employment needs, sober housing, as well as assistance in harm reduction via syringe cleaning kits, Naloxone, condoms/lubricant, and wound/first aid kits.
  • DB Education | 806-793-4522 
    • State certified alcohol education classes for MIP, MIC, PI (Proportional Integrator), DUI Minor, and DWI offenses.