The Good Samaritan Policy eliminates disciplinary consequences for you and the people you are with if you call for help when drinking or using drugs.
The health and safety of UB students is our first priority.
This University policy is similar to New York State’s Good Samaritan Law; however, the UB Good Samaritan Policy applies only to university policies. The policy is designed to encourage students to help others when they’re in trouble, even if they have been drinking or using other drugs. Students are covered by the policy whether they were using alcohol or other drugs voluntarily or involuntarily.
In order for the Good Samaritan policy to apply, the assisted student must agree to the timely completion of assigned alcohol and/or other drug education activities, and assessment and/or treatment. These steps are assigned depending on the level of concern for the student's health and safety. Organizations involved in an incident must also agree to address concerns by taking recommended steps, such as educational activities.
This policy is part of the University at Buffalo’s comprehensive approach to reducing the harmful consequences caused by the use of alcohol and other drugs. The policy is implemented by offices and departments throughout UB, including:
The Good Samaritan Policy also promotes education for individuals who receive emergency medical attention related to their own use of alcohol or other drugs in order to reduce the likelihood of future occurrences.
The Good Samaritan Policy applies when the allegations under the Student Code of Conduct or University’s rules and regulations involve the underage consumption of alcohol, use of other drugs or disorderly conduct. The policy also allows students to report incidents of violence (ex. physical harm, sexual violence) without fear of disciplinary consequences for their own alcohol or other drug use. However, the policy does not prevent disciplinary action regarding other severe violations, including causing or threatening physical harm and sexual violence.
You are strongly encouraged to report any incidents of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking or sexual assault to UB officials or law enforcement. Learn more about reporting.
You should always get help if you see someone who is severely intoxicated or injured. Don’t be afraid to call for help just because you or your friends have been drinking or using other drugs. Do the right thing. You might just save someone’s life.
The Good Samaritan policy eliminates disciplinary consequences for:
Although you may not have disciplinary consequences, you may be asked to meet with someone to talk about what happened.
Campus-wide student support
Student Life
University at Buffalo
315 Student Union, North Campus
Buffalo, NY 14260
Phone: (716) 645-2982; Fax: (716) 645-2260
