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Amnesty

Vol is a Verb and at UTK, Vols help other Vols in need. If you see someone who needs help due to alcohol and/or drugs, contact law enforcement or university staff to get them assistance. Then, stay with the individual until help arrives. If you are under the influence and worried about calling for fear you or others may get in trouble, please know the University provides amnesty to students seeking help in these situations. Amnesty applies to more than one person at a time and may be granted to numerous students involved in any one incident.

Amnesty means no formal disciplinary action is taken when a Good Samaritan: (1) contacts appropriate resources to report and request assistance and (2) demonstrates cooperation and care by remaining with the Impaired Student. Amnesty applies to the Impaired Student(s) and any Good Samaritan(s) under the influence of alcohol and/or other drugs.

  • Impaired Student: student(s) in need of emergency medical attention due to alcohol or other substance use.
  • Good Samaritan: student(s) that seek help for the impaired student(s).

Below are helpful tips to remember regarding Amnesty:

  • Amnesty can apply to more than one impaired student at a time. It can apply to both the Impaired Student(s) & the Good Samaritan(s).
  • Amnesty can apply for both alcohol and/or other drugs.
  • Amnesty can apply to all students, regardless of their age or classification. 
  • Students can call for help for themselves and still be granted Amnesty.
  • When granted Amnesty, no formal disciplinary action from student conduct occurs and instead students are connected to resources.

Please see the Student Code of Conduct for more information regarding Amnesty.