Substance Abuse

CNM has committed its resources to creating an environment that fosters learning. Such an environment depends in part on the physical, emotional and social well-being of CNM students and staff. Abuse of alcohol and drugs impairs work and academic performance, poses a threat to the health and safety of the CNM community and undermines the learning environment. CNM is committed not only to maintaining a drug-free campus but also to helping students and staff solve drug- and alcohol-related problems.

CNM Policy on Illegal Drugs and Alcohol

This policy covers all property and facilities owned, used, leased or controlled by CNM and any other site where CNM business is being conducted, including motor vehicles. Controlled substances are defined in Schedules I through V of the Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C. 812 and implementing regulations, 21 CFR 1308.11-08.15.

Controlled substances include, but are not limited to, marijuana, hashish, cocaine (including crack), amphetamines, heroin, PCP, hallucinogens, anabolic steroids, certain prescription drugs and certain controlled substance analogs. Possession, use, sale or trafficking of controlled substances and glues is prohibited and punishable as a crime.

Illegal uses of alcohol include, but are not limited to, serving, buying or drinking alcohol by a minor; assisting a minor or an intoxicated person to get alcohol; selling alcohol without a license and driving while under the influence. Possession of alcohol is prohibited on all CNM properties and in CNM vehicles.

This policy is not intended to supersede or negate any existing policies on substance abuse, student or employee discipline or any additional requirements imposed on CNM or its students, instructors or staff by federal or state law.

The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of controlled substances or alcohol on CNM property or as part of any of its activities by any member of the CNM community is strictly prohibited. Being on campus or engaging in campus-related activities while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances is also strictly prohibited.

As a condition of continued registration and enrollment, all students shall abide by this policy. Violation of this policy shall result in disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion.

Students and employees in the Truck Driving program are subject to random drug testing under federal law.

CNM’s response to any violation of this policy may include, as a total or partial alternative to disciplinary action, a requirement that the employee or student participate satisfactorily in an approved substance-abuse treatment or rehabilitation program as a condition of continued employment or registration/enrollment. Any employee engaged in the performance of work under a federal contract or grant is required, as a condition of employment, to notify their supervisor within five days if they are convicted of a criminal drug statute violation occurring in the workplace. The supervisor shall notify the CNM administration. Failure of the employee to notify the supervisor shall be grounds for disciplinary action.

In recognition of the dangers of substance abuse in the workplace, CNM shall maintain alcohol and drug-free awareness programs to inform members of the campus community about issues and risks of substance abuse. Counseling and treatment referral resources are listed below.

Legal Sanctions and Health Risks

Penalties for even the most minor violations of the New Mexico Liquor Control Act can include fines of up to $300, confiscation of property and imprisonment for up to 7 (seven) months. More serious violations carry greater penalties, with larger fines and longer imprisonment.

Penalties for illegal drug use can include significant fines and imprisonment. Penalties for illegal sale of drugs are greater and may include property confiscation.

Alternative penalties for illegal drug and alcohol use may also include mandatory community service.

Violation of laws by a foreign national may result in deportation.

Driving or using machinery after drinking or using drugs creates the risk of injury or even death for the user and others. Penalties include criminal charges, up to and including homicide, as well as loss of the driver’s license and impoundment of the vehicle.

In drug-related cases a court may permanently suspend eligibility for federal benefits, including student financial aid. Moreover, a criminal record can seriously hurt education and career opportunities.

Excessive alcohol consumption and abuse of illicit drugs can lead to certain types of cancer, pathological changes in the liver, brain, heart and muscle which can lead to disability and death, as well as addiction, birth defects, shortened life span, stomach ulcers, phlebitis, varicose veins and other health problems.

Alcohol and drugs are also factors in homicide, assaults, rapes, suicides and family and date violence.

Alcohol is significantly involved in all types of accidents: motor vehicle, home, industrial and recreational.

Unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases are often associated with alcohol and other drug abuse. Intravenous (IV) drug use is a high-risk factor for AIDS, which at present is a fatal disease.

Substance abuse negatively impacts on personal, work and academic relationships.

Campus and Community Resources

Any member of the CNM community who is concerned about a substance-abuse problem (their own or a colleague’s) can receive free, confidential assistance at the Counseling Center. A clinical therapist is available to perform a primary assessment on a case-by-case basis.

CNM employees will be referred for assistance through the Employee Assistance Program. Students may receive counseling on campus or be referred to the most appropriate community agency.

Other community resources include:

  • AGORA
  • UNM Crisis Center (505) 277-3013
  • Al-Anon Information Service (505) 262-2177)
  • Alcoholics Anonymous (505) 266-1900
  • All Indian Pueblo Council; Alcoholism Program (505) 884-3820 ext. 25
  • Narcotics Anonymous (505) 260-9889)
  • National Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence (505) 256-8300)
  • Rape Crisis Center (505) 266-7711
  • UNM Center for Alcoholism, Substance Abuse and Addictions (CASAA) (505) 768-0150
  • UNM Mental Health Center; Psychiatric Crisis Unit (505) 272-2920 or (505) 272-2800
  • Suicide Crisis-Emergency Telephone (505) 247-1121
  • Vet Center Readjustment Counseling (505) 766-5900