Jackson State University acknowledges and supports the laws of the State of Mississippi as set forth in Section 41-29-101-185 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, as supplemented, which statute prohibits the sale, distribution, manufacture, possession or use of a controlled substance in this state. As a result of this law and of the policy of the University, to be a drug-free workplace and workforce, staff members (as well as faculty) are specifically prohibited from using, selling, distribution or in any other way involving themselves with controlled substances, except as permitted in the relevant legislation. The term “controlled substances” shall mean those drugs and substances set forth in Schedule I through V of Section 2102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 812) and as further defined by regulation at 21 C.F.R. 1300.11 through 1300.15. For purposes of this policy, the term “personnel” shall specifically include all personnel employed by the University, whether full or part-time, faculty, staff, or administrative. The term “workplace” is any location where a staff member is functioning within his or her job capacity.
The University will make available to all staff members a copy of this policy and will notify staff members that, as a condition of employment, the employee must abide by the requirements of this policy.
- Staff members are reminded that confidential assistance with substance abuse problems is available through several centers for alcohol and drug education in the greater Jackson area.
- Supervisors must confidentially refer for counseling any person under their supervision who appears to be having difficulty with substance abuse.
- Any staff member who has been convicted of a criminal drug statute violation occurring in the workplace must notify his/her immediate supervisor no later than five (5) days after the conviction.
- Upon notification of such a conviction, the University will initiate appropriate personnel action (See “JSU Sanctions” next page) within thirty (30) days of such notification.
- Upon notification of such conviction, the University is required by law to notify the applicable funding agency(ies) within ten (10) days if the staff member is working in a position that is funded by federal monies.