Members of the HBU Community are expected to commit themselves to promoting a healthy social and academic environment where learning and campus life are not hindered by the misuse of alcohol and other drugs.

Possession, sale, or use of alcoholic beverages on campus or at University sponsored events or activities is strictly prohibited.

Evidence of use of alcohol, such as empty alcoholic beverage containers displayed in residents’ rooms or in a student’s possession is also prohibited.

Lighted beer signs or posters promoting the use of alcoholic beverages will not be permitted on campus.

Any student who returns to campus while intoxicated shall be subject to full disciplinary action as outlined in The Student Handbook.

Culpability: As it is difficult to accurately determine degrees of culpability, all students present in a room or area at the time of the alcohol violation will generally be held responsible for such violation. Students are advised in advance to avoid such situations which may put them at risk of disciplinary action.

Health Risks

No printed lists or warning signs can replace talking with a professional in determining whether you or someone you care about has an alcohol problem. Such lists or warning signs can give you a sense of whether you should check out the possibility more thoroughly. The following are symptoms to watch for with respect to alcohol:

• Preoccupation with alcohol
• Increased tolerance of alcohol
• Physical deterioration
• Black-outs
• Morning tremors
• Large amounts of money spent on alcohol
• Consequences (suffering physical, social, occupational, and/or legal problems) as result of alcohol use

Alcoholic Beverage Laws for Minors

Purchase, Attempt to Purchase, Possession, Consumption, Misrepresentation of Age, Public Intoxication by Minor:

• First Offense: Class C misdemeanor: $0-$500, Alcohol awareness course, 8-12 hours community service, 30 days driver’s license suspension or denial.
• Second Offense: Class C misdemeanor: $0-$500, Possible alcohol awareness course, 20-40 hours community service, 90 days driver’s license suspension or denial.
• Third Offense (Under 17): 180 days driver’s license suspension or denial, Juvenile court-child in need of supervision; or Criminal court-adjudicated as an adult.
• Third Offense (17 or Older): Class B misdemeanor: $250-$2000 fine and/or Confinement in jail up to 180 days, Possible alcohol awareness course, 180 days driver’s license suspension or denial.

Zero Tolerance

Consumption While Driving: It is illegal for a minor to drive while having any detectable amount of alcohol in the minor’s system. The following penalties shall be imposed:

• First Offense: Class C misdemeanor: $0-$500, Alcohol awareness course, 20-40 hours community service, 60 days driver’s license suspension, 30 days ineligible for occupational license.
• Second Offense: Class C misdemeanor: $0-$500, Alcohol awareness course, 40-60 hours community service, 120 days driver’s license suspension, 90 days ineligible for occupational license.
• Third Offense (Under 17): 180 days driver’s license suspension, Ineligible for occupational license, Juvenile court-delinquent conduct; or Adult criminal court.
• Third Offense (17 or Older): Class B misdemeanor: $500-$2000 and/or Confinement in jail up to 180 days, 180 days driver’s license suspension, Ineligible for occupational license.

Alcohol Counseling

If students or employees of HBU feel that they may be experiencing an alcohol or drug problem, they are encouraged to contact the Counseling Center located on the first floor of Hinton Center. Counseling is available for confidential consultation on a voluntary walk-in basis or by appointment. The student will not be disciplined for coming in on a voluntary basis. The counselor will be able to provide information or assist in making a referral to a local agency or treatment facility.

Following is a list of various counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation programs and facilities available in the surrounding community:

Alcoholics Anonymous

Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital
7600 Beechnut Street and SW Frwy, Houston, Texas 77074
Monday, 8:00 p.m.; Wednesday, 8:00 p.m.; Friday, 8:00 p.m.

West Oaks Hospital
6550 Hornwood, Houston, Texas 77074
Sunday, 8:00 p.m.; Monday, 8:00 p.m.

College Park Baptist Church
7887 Beechnut Street, Houston, Texas 77074
Thursday, 8:00 p.m.

Bellaire Club
6701 Dunlap, Houston, Texas 77074
713-771-3370
Sunday, 12 Noon; Sunday, 8:00 p.m.; Monday, 12 Noon; Monday, 8 p.m.