A first-time offender may receive only probation and later have the charge dismissed. State and federal law thus makes crimes of many different activities involving drugs. Simple possession, giving, or merely offering drugs is illegal, as are such offenses as the manufacture or sale of drugs. Substance abuse is an issue of continuing concern to our society and, therefore, to our colleges and universities. It has become a national health concern, and the dangers, health risks and overall abuse need to be further addressed.
Alcohol is the most widely abused drug on American colleges and university campuses.
Among young adults, regular drinking is more common than regular use of other substances. The college and university campus culture reflects the American society, and there is no surprise that alcohol and other drugs are a fact of life among college students. Our society is harmed in many ways by alcohol abuse and drug use. Some of the negative effects include decreased productivity and job performance, serious health problems, breakdown of the family structure, academic performance, personal safety, relationships with others, financial problems, emotional and physical stress, rape, violence and crime. Alcohol consumption causes a number of marked changes in behavior.