RPI has implemented a zero-tolerance drug policy which strictly prohibits:  

Possession, use, or facilitation of the use of any “Prohibited Substances” or “Drug Paraphernalia,” as defined herein; and  Attempted or actual sale, manufacture, marketing, trafficking, or transfer of any Prohibited Substances or Drug Paraphernalia.  

“Prohibited Substances” include any of the following for which the individual does not have a legal license or valid prescription: any illegal drug, any controlled substance (as defined by state and federal law), or any substance or method of use that, while not necessarily illegal, is generally recognized as detrimental or dangerous to the health, welfare, or safety of individuals or the community (including, but not limited to, Molly, Spice, K-2, whippets, performance-enhancing drugs, prescription drugs, and research drugs).

“Drug Paraphernalia” is equipment, products, or materials primarily used for the purpose of manufacturing, using, concealing, or distributing Prohibited Substances.  

Students found responsible for any of the above behaviors are subject to the sanctions set forth herein.  

Notwithstanding state law that may de-criminalize use and possession of cannabis in certain circumstances (e.g., possession of a state-issued medical cannabis license, prescription, or equivalent), RPI strictly prohibits the use, facilitation of use, consumption, possession, sale, manufacture, marketing, trafficking, or transfer of cannabis or THC in any of its forms. Any student with a disability who believes they may require access to a Prohibited Substance is required to contact Disability Student Services (DSS) to discuss accommodations and support.  

RPI is an educational institution, not a law enforcement agency, and therefore does not enforce the law. However, RPI will not disregard the law and will not shield individuals from the legal consequences of their actions should they violate the law. In addition, individuals who have violated the law are also subject to disciplinary action. Students will be disciplined according to the procedures in this document and the RPI Handbook of Student Rights and Responsibilities. Pursuant to the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008, the conviction of a student for any offense during a period of enrollment for which the student was receiving Title IV, HEA program funds, under any federal or state law involving the possession or sale of illegal drugs, will result in the loss of eligibility for any Title IV, HEA grant, loan, or work-study assistance (HEA Sec.484(r)(1)); (20 U.S.C. 1091(r)(1)).  

These Regulations on Other Drugs apply to all admitted students, including enrolled and non-enrolled students, for conduct that occurs both on- and off-campus, and regardless of state, locality, or other legal jurisdiction. In addition, the potential loss of financial aid eligibility due to a drug-related conviction applies regardless of where the illegal conduct occurs.