A Good Samaritan Policy for college campuses

Student leaders at UMCP have long advocated for a Good Samaritan Policy for students contacting police and emergency services for students dangerously under the influence of alcohol.  The policy has gained significant student support in past years, but broader campus community has been resistant.

A committee was formed last year to review this issue to develop a policy for the University Senate (the campus shared governance body) to consider the policy.  The Diamondback reports that the new proposed policy addresses many concerns of faculty and staff raised in previous years.  The policy protects both the student under the influence and the student contacting emergency personnel from sanctions.  Of note, UMCP students approved the policy by referendum during last year's election with 90% support.

In my view, the policy is long overdue at UMCP; it's also a policy that other campuses should consider.  The policy protects students who choose to make responsible decisions in siding with safety.  The policy is long overdue, and is one that when implemented, sets a tone that student safety is a first priority.