Alcohol and Medical Emergencies

Signs of Alcohol Poisoning - If someone exhibits ANY of these signs, call 911 immediately!

Mental confusion
Unresponsive
Seizures or slurred speech
Throwing up while unconscious
Hypothermia
Erratic or slow breathing
Loss of consciousness
Paleness/blueness of skin

Medical Amnesty Policy

State Law

Texas has a 911 Lifeline Law that provides medical amnesty from alcohol possession and consumption charges against minors if they:

Request medical assistance for a minor due to alcohol consumption
Remain at the scene
Cooperate with medical and law enforcement personnel

This law only applies to Class C misdemeanors (like a minor in possession (MIP)) and not Class A misdemeanors (such as furnishing alcohol to a minor). Additionally, if the person experiencing the medical emergency is a minor, the law does not grant amnesty to that minor.

24.7.1 Amnesty relating to sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.

Texas A&M University will “not take any disciplinary action against a student enrolled at the institution who in good faith reports to the institution being the victim of, or a witness to, an incident of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, or stalking [as defined in System Regulation 08.01.01, Civil Rights Compliance], for a violation by the student of the institution’s code of conduct occurring at or near the time of the incident, regardless of the location at which the incident occurred or the outcome of the institution’s disciplinary process regarding the incident, if any.” (Texas Education Code Sec. 51.284).

This amnesty does not apply in situations where:
1. A student “reports the student’s own commission or assistance in the commission of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, or stalking” [as defined in System Regulation 08.01.01]; or
2. A student’s behavior occurring near or at the time of the incident could result in a suspension or expulsion from the university. For the purposes of this rule, suspension or expulsion may be possible outcomes when the student’s behavior:
  - Threatens or endangers the physical or mental health and/or safety of other individuals;
  - Causes significant property damage or loss;
  - Causes significant burden on the university and/or community members to repair the harm caused by the behavior;
  - Would cause a reasonable person similarly situated to fear for their safety or suffer substantial emotional distress;
  - Causes significant disruption that limits others’ ability to access the academic, co-curricular, or work environment; or
  - Has demonstrated a pattern of failure to comply with university behavioral expectations; Staff in the Office of the Dean of Student Life “may investigate to determine whether a report of an incident of sexual harassment sexual assault, dating violence, or stalking was made in good faith” (Texas Education Code Sec. 51.284(b)). A determination by the Dean of Student Life or designee that a student is entitled to amnesty is final and may not be revoked. All questions of implementation of this amnesty rule are subject to the decision of the Dean of Student Life or designee.

24.7.2 Amnesty pertaining to alcohol and other drugs.

A student who calls 9-1-1 or takes an individual to receive emergency treatment for possible alcohol and/or drug overdose will not be charged under this code for possession or use of alcohol or other drugs. This amnesty only applies if:

The student stays with the individual needing treatment until emergency services arrive;
The student takes reasonable measures to assist the individual needing treatment; and
The student is cooperative with emergency services and university processes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Medical Amnesty?

Medical Amnesty is a policy that protects you from getting in trouble for alcohol or drug use when you seek help in an emergency. If you or a friend is in danger from alcohol or drug use, the university wants you to call for help – without fear of getting punished.

When does this policy apply?

You’re protected from conduct charges if:

You call 911 or help someone get emergency medical treatment
You stay with the person until help arrives
You cooperate with emergency responders and university staff

This applies if you were using alcohol or drugs—but chose to do the right thing and help someone in need.

Will I still have to meet with someone at the university?

Yes. Even though you won’t face conduct charges, you may still be asked to meet with staff to talk about the incident and get connected to health and safety resources.

Does it only apply if I call 911?

No. It also applies if you take someone to get help (like a hospital or campus police office), as long as you stay involved and cooperative throughout the process.

What if I’m under 21?

You’re still protected! This policy helps students of all ages avoid conduct charges for drinking or using drugs if you’re helping someone during an emergency.

Are there any situations where amnesty doesn’t apply?

Yes. Amnesty might not apply if:

You were involved in committing the assault or violence
Your actions caused serious harm, threatened others’ safety, or showed a pattern of breaking rules
You didn’t act in good faith

These situations are reviewed by the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs, and their decision is final.

Bottom line?

If you or someone else needs medical help—call for help.
You won’t be punished for using drugs or alcohol if you do the right thing and cooperate.