Heads up – Gov. Phil Bredesen has signed a bill that will be significant to underage college students.
Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, ETSU must now notify the parents of students who are under 21 of alcohol and illegal substance abuse.
The law, Tennessee Legislation Classification Code HB4088, requires public colleges and universities to notify parents when a student has violated laws regarding underage drinking or illegal drug use.
From the state legislature’s point of view, this is an “effort to foster partnerships between the university and parents of students.” This regulation is currently in effect and has been since the beginning of the academic year. It will continue to be enforced until the law is changed.
In accordance with federal, state, and local law, Dr. Joe Sherlin, dean of students, said, “We’re required to comply. We want to help students in offense to the rule learn from their behavior. We will provide support, focus on education, and follow each case fair and reasonably.”
Decisions are made through housing officials, student judicial systems and university judicial systems consisting of faculty and students, as well as Greek Society officials.
Once a decision is made, and an appeal concluded, disciplinary actions can range anywhere from suspension to expulsion.
However, students will have an opportunity to notify their parents, as communication between student and parent in the event of a violation is especially important.
For more details on the law, please visit http://www.legislature.state.tn.us, click on the Legislation link and search HB4088.

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