Bellevue College Drug and Alcohol Prevention Program Quarterly Notification |2025-2026
Distribution of the Drug and Alcohol Prevention Program Quarterly Notification
As a requirement of the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) [EDGAR Part 86] regulations,
Bellevue College is to distribute and ensure receipt of the below policy/information to all students, staff,
and faculty on an annual basis. Bellevue College is required to inform all students and employees of the
standards of conduct, laws pertaining to illicit drugs and alcohol, the health risks thereof, possible
disciplinary sanctions relating to illicit drugs and alcohol, and a list of available resources for addressing
illicit drug and alcohol use through the distribution of the Drug and Alcohol Prevention Program
(DAAPP).
In order to account for changes in employment and enrollment, Bellevue College will distribute the
DAAPP on a quarterly basis to ensure compliance with the DFSCA. Each quarter, an email will be sent to
all Bellevue College employees and students containing an explanation and a link to the DAAPP.
Additionally, the DAAPP can be located at any time on the Bellevue College Public Safety website.
Questions concerning this policy and/or alcohol and other drug programs, interventions, and policies
may be directed to the Public Safety Director, Fernando Moratalla at
Fernando.Moratalla@bellevuecollege.edu or (425) 564-5710.
Policy Statements
Students
Prohibited Student Conduct
The Student Conduct Code (WAC 132H-126-100) prohibits the use of alcohol, drug and tobacco except as permitted by law.
Alcohol: Use, possession, manufacture, or distribution of alcoholic beverages or paraphernalia (except as expressly permitted by college policies, and federal, state, and local laws), or public intoxication on college premises or at college-sponsored events. Alcoholic beverages may not, in any circumstance, be used by, possessed by, or distributed to any person not of legal age.
Drugs: The use, possession, production, delivery, sale, or being under the influence of any prescription drug or possession of drug paraphernalia, including anabolic steroids, androgens, or human growth hormones as defined in chapter 69.41 RCW, or any other controlled substance under chapter 69.50 RCW, except as prescribed for a student’s use by a licensed practitioner.
Marijuana: The use, possession, growing, delivery, sale, or being visibly under the influence of marijuana or the psychoactive compounds found in marijuana and intended for human consumption, regardless of form, or the possession of marijuana paraphernalia on college premises or college-sponsored events. While state law permits the recreational use of marijuana, federal law prohibits such use on college premises or in connection with college activities.
Tobacco, electronic cigarettes and related products: The use of tobacco, electronic cigarettes, and related products is prohibited in any building owned, leased, or operated by the college or in any location where such use is prohibited, including twenty-five feet from entrances, exits, windows that open, and ventilation intakes of any building owned, leased, or operated by the college. Related products include, but are not limited to, cigarettes, pipes, bidi, clove cigarettes, water pipes, hookahs, chewing tobacco, and snuff.
Students found responsible for violating these polices may be subject to a warning through dismissal from the college and denial of future registration. The Student Conduct Code (“Code”) may be found under the WAC (Washington Administrative Code) WAC 132H-126. The Code includes definitions, jurisdictions, student standards, procedures and violations of campus policies. A student can appeal a disciplinary action by filing a written notice of appeal with the conduct review officer within twenty-one days of service of the student conduct officer’s decision. More information about the appeal process is found in WAC 132H-126
Employees
Bellevue College intends to provide a drug-free, healthful, safe, and secure work and educational environment. Each employee is expected to report to work in an appropriate mental and physical condition to perform his/her assigned duties. Each student is expected to be in an appropriate mental and physical condition to participate fully in the learning process.
The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance in or on Bellevue College owned or controlled property, or while conducting Bellevue College business, is prohibited. Violation of this policy will be reason for appropriate personnel action, or for mandatory evaluation/treatment for substance abuse. Any personnel actions and student violations will be processed in accordance with state regulations, bargaining unit agreements, student conduct code, or other appropriate policies of the college. Any disciplinary action for employees or students will be decided on a case-by-case basis depending upon the specific circumstances.
Employees must report any conviction under a criminal drug statute for violations occurring in or on property owned or controlled by Bellevue College or while conducting Bellevue College business. An employee shall report any such conviction to their supervisor within five (5) days after the conviction. Bellevue College must report the conviction to the appropriate federal grant/contracting agency within ten (10) days after having received notice that a person employed under a federally-sponsored grant or contract has any drug statute conviction or violation occurring in the workplace.
Bellevue College recognizes drug abuse and/or dependency to be a health, safety, and security problem. Employees needing assistance with problems related to drug or alcohol abuse are encouraged to use the State Employee Advisory Service and/or employee medical insurance plans, as appropriate. Conscientious efforts to seek such help will not jeopardize employment.
The board of trustees of Community College District VIII recognizes alcoholism, alcohol abuse, chemical dependency, and other health and related behavioral problems as treatable conditions which repeatedly and continually interfere with an employee’s ability to perform their job. A college employee having these conditions will be given the same consideration and offer of assistance presently extended to employees having other illnesses.
Alcohol and Drug Resources
Internal Resources
Bellevue College Counseling Center – The Counseling Center offers free and confidential mental health counseling to registered BC students. Services are available in-person and remote and in a variety of languages. The Counseling Center is located on the second floor of the Student Success Center building (U- Building). To schedule an appointment, complete an online scheduling form, email counseling@bellevuecollege.edu, call 425-564-5747, or visit their front desk. Visit their website for more information.
Employee Assistance Program – (877) 313-4455 The Washington State Employee Assistance Program (EAP) supports public employees and/or family members to help identify and resolve personal concerns that may affect job performance. Services available to all covered employees and/or family members include counseling, work/life, 24/7 support and awareness, education and resources.
Education Resources
Alcohol Drug Helpline
Find an AA meeting
Rethinking Drinking: Alcohol & Your Health
External Resources
Eastside Intergroup – (425) 454-9192 (24-hour hotline) Address: 13401 Bel-Red Rd. Bellevue 98005
Alcoholics Anonymous
Al-anon (support for those affected by alcohol use)
Narcotics Anonymous
Betty Ford Clinic, Bellevue, WA – (877) 773-6180 Outpatient Drug Rehab and Mental Health Center
Hotel California By the Sea Bellevue Treatment Center (425) 516-7144
Policies and Legal Sanctions Regarding Alcohol and Other Drugs
Bellevue College Policies
4500 Drug-Free Environment
Bellevue College intends to provide a drug-free, healthful, safe, and secure work and educational environment. Each employee is expected to report to work in an appropriate mental and physical condition to perform his/her assigned duties. Each student is expected to be in an appropriate mental and physical condition to participate fully in the learning process.
The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance in or on Bellevue College owned or controlled property, or while conducting Bellevue College business, is prohibited. Violation of this policy will be reason for appropriate personnel action, or for mandatory evaluation/treatment for substance abuse. Any personnel actions and student violations will be processed in accordance with state regulations, bargaining unit agreements, student conduct code, or other appropriate policies of the college. Any disciplinary action for employees or students will be decided on a case-by-case basis depending upon the specific circumstances.
Employees must report any conviction under a criminal drug statute for violations occurring in or on property owned or controlled by Bellevue College or while conducting Bellevue College business. An employee shall report any such conviction to her/his supervisor within five (5) days after the conviction. Bellevue College must report the conviction to the appropriate federal grant/contracting agency within ten (10) days after having received notice that a person employed under a federally-sponsored grant or contract has any drug statute conviction or violation occurring in the workplace.
Bellevue College recognizes drug abuse and/or dependency to be a health, safety, and security problem. Employees needing assistance with problems related to drug or alcohol abuse are encouraged to use the State Employee Advisory Service and/or employee medical insurance plans, as appropriate. Conscientious efforts to seek such help will not jeopardize employment.
The board of trustees of Community College District VIII recognizes alcoholism, alcohol abuse, chemical dependency, and other health and related behavioral problems as treatable conditions which repeatedly and continually interfere with an employee’s ability to perform his/her job. A college employee having these conditions will be given the same consideration and offer of assistance presently extended to employees having other illnesses.
WAC 132H-126-100 Prohibited student conduct
The college may impose disciplinary sanctions against a student who commits or attempts to commit, or aids, abets, incites, encourages, or assists another person to commit the following acts of misconduct:
6) Alcohol. Use, possession, manufacture, or distribution of alcoholic beverages or paraphernalia (except as expressly permitted by college policies, and federal, state, and local laws), or public intoxication on college premises or at college-sponsored events. Alcoholic beverages may not, in any circumstance, be used by, possessed by, or distributed to any person not of legal age.
(19) Cannabis or other drugs.
(a) Cannabis. The use, possession, growing, delivery, sale, or being visibly under the influence of cannabis or the psychoactive compounds found in cannabis and intended for human consumption, regardless of form, or the possession of cannabis paraphernalia on college premises or college-sponsored events. While state law permits the recreational use of cannabis, federal law prohibits such use on college premises or in connection with college activities. (b) Drugs. The use, possession, production, delivery, sale, or being under the influence of any prescription drug or possession of drug paraphernalia, including anabolic steroids, androgens, or human growth hormones as defined in chapter 69.41 RCW, or any other controlled substance under chapter 69.50 RCW, except as prescribed for a student’s use by a licensed practitioner.
State of Washington Legal Sanctions for Alcohol and Drug Offenses
RCW 46.61.502 Driving under the influence
(1) A person is guilty of driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, marijuana, or any drug if the person drives a vehicle within this state: (a) And the person has, within two hours after driving, an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher as shown by analysis of the person’s breath or blood made under RCW 46.61.506; or (b) The person has, within two hours after driving, a THC concentration of 5.00 or higher as shown by analysis of the person’s blood made under RCW 46.61.506; or (c) While the person is under the influence of or affected by intoxicating liquor, marijuana, or any drug; or (d) While the person is under the combined influence of or affected by intoxicating liquor, marijuana, and any drug.
(2) The fact that a person charged with a violation of this section is or has been entitled to use a drug under the laws of this state shall not constitute a defense against a charge of violating this section.
(3)(a) It is an affirmative defense to a violation of subsection (1)(a) of this section, which the defendant must prove by a preponderance of the evidence, that the defendant consumed a sufficient quantity of alcohol after the time of driving and before the administration of an analysis of the person’s breath or blood to cause the defendant’s alcohol concentration to be 0.08 or more within two hours after driving. The court shall not admit evidence of this defense unless the defendant notifies the prosecution prior to the omnibus or pretrial hearing in the case of the defendant’s intent to assert the affirmative defense.
(b) It is an affirmative defense to a violation of subsection (1)(b) of this section, which the defendant must prove by a preponderance of the evidence, that the defendant consumed a sufficient quantity of marijuana after the time of driving and before the administration of an analysis of the person’s blood to cause the defendant’s THC concentration to be 5.00 or more within two hours after driving. The court shall not admit evidence of this defense unless the defendant notifies the prosecution prior to the omnibus or pretrial hearing in the case of the defendant’s intent to assert the affirmative defense.
(4)(a) Analyses of blood or breath samples obtained more than two hours after the alleged driving may be used as evidence that within two hours of the alleged driving, a person had an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more in violation of subsection (1)(a) of this section, and in any case in which the analysis shows an alcohol concentration above 0.00 may be used as evidence that a person was under the influence of or affected by intoxicating liquor or any drug in violation of subsection (1)(c) or (d) of this section. (b) Analyses of blood samples obtained more than two hours after the alleged driving may be used as evidence that within two hours of the alleged driving, a person had a THC concentration of 5.00 or more in violation of subsection (1)(b) of this section, and in any case in which the analysis shows a THC concentration above 0.00 may be used as evidence that a person was under the influence of or affected by marijuana in violation of subsection (1)(c) or (d) of this section.
(5) Except as provided in subsection (6) of this section, a violation of this section is a gross misdemeanor.
(6) It is a class B felony punishable under chapter 9.94A RCW, or chapter 13.40 RCW if the person is a juvenile, if: (a) The person has three or more prior offenses within ten years as defined in RCW 46.61.5055; or (b) The person has ever previously been convicted of: (i) Vehicular homicide while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug, RCW 46.61.520(1)(a); (ii) Vehicular assault while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug, RCW 46.61.522(1)(b); (iii) An out-of-state offense comparable to the offense specified in (b)(i) or (ii) of this subsection; or (iv) A violation of this subsection (6) or RCW 46.61.504(6).
RCW 46.61.503 Driver under twenty-one consuming alcohol or marijuana—Penalties
(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, a person is guilty of driving or being in physical control of a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol or marijuana if the person operates or is in physical control of a motor vehicle within this state and the person: (a) Is under the age of twenty-one; and (b) Has, within two hours after operating or being in physical control of the motor vehicle, either: (i) An alcohol concentration of at least 0.02 but less than the concentration specified in RCW 46.61.502, as shown by analysis of the person’s breath or blood made under RCW 46.61.506; or (ii) A THC concentration above 0.00 but less than the concentration specified in RCW 46.61.502, as shown by analysis of the person’s blood made under RCW 46.61.506.
(2) It is an affirmative defense to a violation of subsection (1) of this section, which the defendant must prove by a preponderance of the evidence, that the defendant consumed a sufficient quantity of alcohol or marijuana after the time of driving or being in physical control and before the administration of an analysis of the person’s breath or blood to cause the defendant’s alcohol or THC concentration to be in violation of subsection (1) of this section within two hours after driving or being in physical control. The court shall not admit evidence of this defense unless the defendant notifies the prosecution prior to the earlier of: (a) Seven days prior to trial; or (b) the omnibus or pretrial hearing in the case of the defendant’s intent to assert the affirmative defense.
(3) No person may be convicted under this section for being in physical control of a motor vehicle and it is an affirmative defense to any action pursuant to RCW 46.20.308 to suspend, revoke, or deny the privilege to drive, if, prior to being pursued by a law enforcement officer, the person has moved the vehicle safely off the roadway.
(4) Analyses of blood or breath samples obtained more than two hours after the alleged driving or being in physical control may be used as evidence that within two hours of the alleged driving or being in physical control, a person had an alcohol or THC concentration in violation of subsection (1) of this section.
(5) A violation of this section is a misdemeanor.
RCW 46.61.504 Physical control of vehicle under the influence
(1) A person is guilty of being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug if the person has actual physical control of a vehicle within this state: (a) And the person has, within two hours after being in actual physical control of the vehicle, an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher as shown by analysis of the person’s breath or blood made under RCW 46.61.506; or (b) The person has, within two hours after being in actual physical control of a vehicle, a THC concentration of 5.00 or higher as shown by analysis of the person’s blood made under RCW 46.61.506; or (c) While the person is under the influence of or affected by intoxicating liquor or any drug; or (d) While the person is under the combined influence of or affected by intoxicating liquor and any drug.
(2) The fact that a person charged with a violation of this section is or has been entitled to use a drug under the laws of this state does not constitute a defense against any charge of violating this section. No person may be convicted under this section and it is an affirmative defense to any action pursuant to RCW 46.20.308 to suspend, revoke, or deny the privilege to drive if, prior to being pursued by a law enforcement officer, the person has moved the vehicle safely off the roadway.
(3)(a) It is an affirmative defense to a violation of subsection (1)(a) of this section which the defendant must prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant consumed a sufficient quantity of alcohol after the time of being in actual physical control of the vehicle and before the administration of an analysis of the person’s breath or blood to cause the defendant’s alcohol concentration to be 0.08 or more within two hours after being in such control. The court shall not admit evidence of this defense unless the defendant notifies the prosecution prior to the omnibus or pretrial hearing in the case of the defendant’s intent to assert the affirmative defense. (b) It is an affirmative defense to a violation of subsection (1)(b) of this section, which the defendant must prove by a preponderance of the evidence, that the defendant consumed a sufficient quantity of marijuana after the time of being in actual physical control of the vehicle and before the administration of an analysis of the person’s blood to cause the defendant’s THC concentration to be 5.00 or more within two hours after being in control of the vehicle. The court shall not admit evidence of this defense unless the defendant notifies the prosecution prior to the omnibus or pretrial hearing in the case of the defendant’s intent to assert the affirmative defense.
(4)(a) Analyses of blood or breath samples obtained more than two hours after the alleged being in actual physical control of a vehicle may be used as evidence that within two hours of the alleged being in such control, a person had an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more in violation of subsection (1)(a) of this section, and in any case in which the analysis shows an alcohol concentration above 0.00 may be used as evidence that a person was under the influence of or affected by intoxicating liquor or any drug in violation of subsection (1)(c) or (d) of this section. (b) Analyses of blood samples obtained more than two hours after the alleged being in actual physical control of a vehicle may be used as evidence that within two hours of the alleged being in control of the vehicle, a person had a THC concentration of 5.00 or more in violation of subsection (1)(b) of this section, and in any case in which the analysis shows a THC concentration above 0.00 may be used as evidence that a person was under the influence of or affected by marijuana in violation of subsection (1)(c) or (d) of this section.
(5) Except as provided in subsection (6) of this section, a violation of this section is a gross misdemeanor.
(6) It is a class C felony punishable under chapter 9.94A RCW, or chapter 13.40 RCW if the person is a juvenile, if: (a) The person has three or more prior offenses within ten years as defined in RCW 46.61.5055; or (b) The person has ever previously been convicted of: (i) Vehicular homicide while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug, RCW 46.61.520(1)(a); (ii) Vehicular assault while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug, RCW 46.61.522(1)(b);(iii) An out-of-state offense comparable to the offense specified in (b)(i) or (ii) of this subsection; or (iv) A violation of this subsection (6) or RCW 46.61.502(6).
RCW 66.44.270 Furnishing liquor to minors—Possession, use—Penalties—Exhibition of effects—Exceptions
(1) It is unlawful for any person to sell, give, or otherwise supply liquor to any person under the age of twenty-one years or permit any person under that age to consume liquor on his or her premises or on any premises under his or her control. For the purposes of this subsection, “premises” includes real property, houses, buildings, and other structures, and motor vehicles and watercraft. A violation of this subsection is a gross misdemeanor punishable as provided for in chapter 9A.20 RCW.
(2)(a) It is unlawful for any person under the age of twenty-one years to possess, consume, or otherwise acquire any liquor. A violation of this subsection is a gross misdemeanor punishable as provided for in chapter 9A.20 RCW. (b) It is unlawful for a person under the age of twenty-one years to be in a public place, or to be in a motor vehicle in a public place, while exhibiting the effects of having consumed liquor. For purposes of this subsection, exhibiting the effects of having consumed liquor means that a person has the odor of liquor on his or her breath and either: (i) Is in possession of or close proximity to a container that has or recently had liquor in it; or (ii) by speech, manner, appearance, behavior, lack of coordination, or otherwise, exhibits that he or she is under the influence of liquor. This subsection (2)(b) does not apply if the person is in the presence of a parent or guardian or has consumed or is consuming liquor under circumstances described in subsection (4), (5), or (7) of this section.
(3) Subsections (1) and (2)(a) of this section do not apply to liquor given or permitted to be given to a person under the age of twenty-one years by a parent or guardian and consumed in the presence of the parent or guardian. This subsection shall not authorize consumption or possession of liquor by a person under the age of twenty-one years on any premises licensed under chapter 66.24 RCW.
(4) This section does not apply to liquor given for medicinal purposes to a person under the age of twenty-one years by a parent, guardian, physician, or dentist.
(5) This section does not apply to liquor given to a person under the age of twenty-one years when such liquor is being used in connection with religious services and the amount consumed is the minimal amount necessary for the religious service.
(6) This section does not apply to liquor provided to students under twenty-one years of age in accordance with a special permit issued under RCW 66.20.010(12).
(7)(a) A person under the age of twenty-one years acting in good faith who seeks medical assistance for someone experiencing alcohol poisoning shall not be charged or prosecuted under subsection (2)(a) of this section, if the evidence for the charge was obtained as a result of the person seeking medical assistance. (b) A person under the age of twenty-one years who experiences alcohol poisoning and is in need of medical assistance shall not be charged or prosecuted under subsection (2)(a) of this section, if the evidence for the charge was obtained as a result of the poisoning and need for medical assistance. (c) The protection in this subsection shall not be grounds for suppression of evidence in other criminal charges.
(8) Conviction or forfeiture of bail for a violation of this section by a person under the age of twenty-one years at the time of such conviction or forfeiture shall not be a disqualification of that person to acquire a license to sell or dispense any liquor after that person has attained the age of twenty-one years.
RCW 66.44.150 Buying liquor illegally
If any person in this state buys alcoholic beverages from any person other than a person authorized by the board to sell alcoholic beverages, he or she is guilty of a misdemeanor.
RCW 66.44.160 Illegal possession, transportation of alcoholic beverages
Except as otherwise provided in this title, any person who has or keeps or transports alcoholic beverages other than those purchased from the board, a state liquor store, or some person authorized by the board to sell them, shall be guilty of a violation of this title.
RCW 66.44.210 Obtaining liquor for ineligible person
Except in the case of liquor administered by a physician or dentist or sold upon a prescription in accordance with the provisions of this title, no person shall procure or supply, or assist directly or indirectly in procuring or supplying, liquor for or to anyone whose permit is suspended or has been canceled.
RCW 69.04.009 “Drugs”
The term “drug” means (1) articles recognized in the official United States pharmacopoeia, official homeopathic pharmacopoeia of the United States, or official national formulary, or any supplement to any of them; and (2) articles intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in human beings or other animals; and (3) articles (other than food) intended to affect the structure or any function of the body of human beings or other animals; and (4) articles intended for use as a component of any article specified in clause (1), (2), or (3); but does not include devices or their components, parts, or accessories.
RCW 69.04.010 “Device”
The term “device” (except when used in RCW 69.04.016 and in RCW * 69.04.040(10), ** 69.04.270, 69.04.690, and in RCW 69.04.470 as used in the sentence “(as compared with other words, statements, designs, or devices, in the labeling)”) means instruments, apparatus, and contrivances, including their components, parts and accessories, intended
(1) for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in human beings or other animals; or
(2) to affect the structure or any function of the body of human beings or other animals.
RCW 66.28.210 Keg registration—Requirements of purchaser
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, any person who purchases the contents of kegs or other containers containing four gallons or more of malt liquor, or purchases or leases the container shall: (a) Sign a declaration and receipt for the keg or other container or beverage in substantially the form provided in RCW 66.28.220;(b) Provide one piece of identification pursuant to *RCW 66.16.040; (c) Be of legal age to purchase, possess, or use malt liquor; (d) Not allow any person under the age of twenty-one to consume the beverage except as provided by RCW 66.44.270; (e) Not remove, obliterate, or allow to be removed or obliterated, the identification required under rules adopted by the board; (f) Not move, keep, or store the keg or its contents, except for transporting to and from the distributor, at any place other than that particular address declared on the receipt and declaration; and (g) Maintain a copy of the declaration and receipt next to or adjacent to the keg or other container, in no event a distance greater than five feet, and visible without a physical barrier from the keg, during the time that the keg or other container is in the purchaser’s possession or control.
(2) A person who purchases the contents of a keg or other container containing four gallons or more of malt liquor from a domestic brewery licensed under RCW 66.24.240 or a microbrewery licensed under RCW 66.24.244, or who purchases or leases a keg or other container that will hold four gallons or more of liquid from such a domestic brewery or microbrewery, is not subject to this section except for the requirements in subsection (1)(c) and (d) of this section.
(3) A violation of this section is a gross misdemeanor. For an exhaustive list of Washington state alcohol and drug laws and penalties, visit the Revised Code of Washington and view Titles 46.61 Rules of the Road and 66 Alcohol Beverage Control.
RCW 69.04.040 Prohibited acts
The following acts and the causing thereof are hereby prohibited:
(1) The sale in intrastate commerce of any drug, device, or cosmetic that is adulterated or misbranded.
(2) The adulteration or misbranding of any drug, device, or cosmetic in intrastate commerce.
(3) The receipt in intrastate commerce of any drug, device, or cosmetic that is adulterated or misbranded, and the sale thereof in such commerce for pay or otherwise.
(4) The introduction or delivery for introduction into intrastate commerce of any new drug in violation of RCW 69.04.570.
(5) The dissemination within this state, in any manner or by any means or through any medium, of any false advertisement.
(6) The refusal to permit (a) entry and the taking of a sample or specimen or the making of any investigation or examination as authorized by RCW 69.04.780; or (b) access to or copying of any record as authorized by RCW 69.04.810.
(7) The refusal to permit entry or inspection as authorized by RCW 69.04.820.
(8) The removal, mutilation, or violation of an embargo notice as authorized by RCW 69.04.110.
(9) The giving of a guaranty or undertaking in intrastate commerce, referred to in RCW 69.04.080, that is false.
(10) The alteration, mutilation, destruction, obliteration, or removal of the whole or any part of the labeling of a drug, device, or cosmetic, or the doing of any other act with respect to a drug, device, or cosmetic, or the labeling or advertisement thereof, which results in a violation of this chapter.
(11) The using in intrastate commerce, in the labeling or advertisement of any drug, of any representation or suggestion that an application with respect to such drug is effective under section 505 of the federal act or under RCW 69.04.570, or that such drug complies with the provisions of either such section.
RCW 69.04.060 Criminal penalty for violations
Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, any person who violates any provision of RCW 69.04.040 is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall on conviction thereof be subject to the following penalties:
(1) A fine of not more than two hundred dollars; or
(2) If the violation is committed after a conviction of such person under this section has become final, imprisonment for not more than thirty days, or a fine of not more than five hundred dollars, or both such imprisonment and fine.
RCW 69.04.070 Additional penalty
Notwithstanding the provisions of RCW 69.04.060, a person who violates RCW 69.04.040 with intent to defraud or mislead is guilty of a misdemeanor and the penalty shall be imprisonment for not more than ninety days, or a fine of not more than one thousand dollars, or both such imprisonment and fine.
RCW 69.04.080 Avoidance of penalty
No person shall be subject to the penalties of RCW 69.04.060:
(1) For having violated RCW 69.04.040(3), if he or she establishes that he or she received and sold such article in good faith, unless he or she refuses on request of the director to furnish the name and address of the person in the state of Washington from whom he or she received such article and copies of all available documents pertaining to his or her receipt thereof; or
(2) For having violated RCW 69.04.040 (1), (3), or (4), if he or she establishes a guaranty or undertaking signed by, and containing the name and address of, the person in the state of Washington from whom he or she received such article in good faith, to the effect that such article complies with this chapter; or
(3) For having violated RCW 69.04.040(5), if he or she establishes a guaranty or undertaking signed by, and containing the name and address of, the person in the state of Washington from whom he or she received such advertisement in good faith, to the effect that such advertisement complies with this chapter; or
(4) For having violated RCW 69.04.040(9), if he or she establishes that he or she gave such guaranty or undertaking in good faith and in reliance on a guaranty or undertaking to him or her, which guaranty or undertaking was to the same effect and was signed by, and contained the name and address of, a person in the state of Washington.
RCW 69.04.410 Drugs—Adulteration by harmful substances
A drug or device shall be deemed to be adulterated
(1) if it consists in whole or in part of any filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance; or
(2) if it has been produced, prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions whereby it may have been contaminated with filth, or whereby it may have been rendered injurious to health; or
(3) if it is a drug and its container is composed in whole or in part of any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render the contents injurious to health; or
(4) if it is a drug and it bears or contains, for purposes of coloring only, a coal tar color other than one that is harmless and suitable for use in drugs for such purposes, as provided by regulations promulgated under section 504 of the federal act.
RCW 69.04.420 Drugs—Adulteration for failure to comply with compendium standard
If a drug or device purports to be or is represented as a drug the name of which is recognized in an official compendium, and its strength differs from, or its quality or purity falls below, the standard set forth in such compendium, it shall be deemed to be adulterated. Such determination as to strength, quality or purity shall be made in accordance with the tests or methods of assay set forth in such compendium or prescribed by regulations promulgated under section 501(b) of the federal act. No drug defined in an official compendium shall be deemed to be adulterated under this section because it differs from the standard of strength, quality, or purity therefor set forth in such compendium, if its difference in strength, quality, or purity from such standard is plainly stated on its label. Whenever a drug is recognized in both the United States pharmacopoeia and the homeopathic pharmacopoeia of the United States, it shall be subject to the requirements of the United States pharmacopoeia unless it is labeled and offered for sale as a homeopathic drug, in which case it shall be subject to the provisions of the homeopathic pharmacopoeia of the United States and not to those of the United States pharmacopoeia.
RCW 69.04.430 Drugs—Adulteration for lack of represented purity or quality
If a drug or device is not subject to the provisions of RCW 69.04.420 and its strength differs from, or its purity or quality falls below, that which it purports or is represented to possess, it shall be deemed to be adulterated.
RCW 69.04.440 Drugs—Adulteration by admixture or substitution of ingredients
A drug shall be deemed to be adulterated if any substance has been (1) mixed or packed therewith so as to reduce its quality or strength or (2) substituted wholly or in part therefor.
RCW 69.04.740 Regulations to conform with federal regulations
The purpose of this chapter being to promote uniformity of state legislation with the federal act, the director is hereby authorized (1) to adopt, insofar as applicable, the regulations from time to time promulgated under the federal act; and (2) to make the regulations promulgated under this chapter conform, insofar as practicable, with those promulgated under the federal act.
RCW 69.04.750 Hearings
Hearings authorized or required by this chapter shall be conducted by the director or his or her duly authorized representative designated for the purpose.
RCW 69.04.761 Hearing on proposed regulation—Procedure
The director shall hold a public hearing upon a proposal to promulgate any new or amended regulation under this chapter. The procedure to be followed concerning such hearings shall comply in all respects with chapter 34.05 RCW (Administrative Procedure Act) as now enacted or hereafter amended.
RCW 69.04.770 Review on petition prior to effective date
The director shall have jurisdiction to review and to affirm, modify, or set aside any order issued under *RCW 69.04.760, promulgating a new or amended regulation under this chapter, upon petition made at any time prior to the effective date of such regulation, by any person adversely affected by such order.
RCW 69.04.780 Investigations—Samples—Right of entry—Verified statements
The director shall cause the investigation and examination of food, drugs, devices, and cosmetics subject to this chapter. The director shall have the right (1) to take a sample or specimen of any such article, for examination under this chapter, upon tendering the market price therefor to the person having such article in custody; and (2) to enter any place or establishment within this state, at reasonable times, for the purpose of taking a sample or specimen of any such article, for such examination.
The director and the director’s deputies, assistants, and inspectors are authorized to do all acts and things necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter, including the taking of verified statements. Such department personnel are empowered to administer oaths of verification on the statements.
RCW 69.04.790 Owner may obtain part of sample
Where a sample or specimen of any such article is taken for examination under this chapter, the director shall, upon request, provide a part thereof for examination by any person named on the label of such article, or the owner thereof, or his or her attorney or agent; except that the director is authorized, by regulation, to make such reasonable exceptions from, and to impose such reasonable terms and conditions relating to, the operation of this section as he or she finds necessary for the proper administration of the provisions of this chapter.
RCW 69.04.800 Access to records of other agencies
For the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this chapter, pertinent records of any administrative agency of the state government shall be open to inspection by the director.
RCW 69.04.810 Access to records of intrastate carriers
For the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this chapter, carriers engaged in intrastate commerce, and persons receiving drugs, devices, or cosmetics in intrastate commerce or holding such articles so received, shall, upon the request of the director, permit the director at reasonable times, to have access to and to copy all records showing the movement in intrastate commerce of any drug, device, or cosmetic, or the holding thereof during or after such movement, and the quantity, shipper, and consignee thereof; and it shall be unlawful for any such carrier or person to fail to permit such access to and the copying of any such records so requested when such request is accompanied by a statement in writing specifying the nature or kind of drug, device, or cosmetic to which such request relates: PROVIDED, that evidence obtained under this section shall not be used in a criminal prosecution of the person from whom obtained: PROVIDED FURTHER, That carriers shall not be subject to the other provisions of this chapter by reason of their receipt, carriage, holding, or delivery of drugs, devices, or cosmetics in the usual course of business as carriers.
RCW 69.04.820 Right of entry to factories, warehouses, vehicles, etc
For the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this chapter, the director is authorized (1) to enter, at reasonable times, any factory, warehouse, or establishment subject to this chapter, or to enter any vehicle being used to transport or hold drugs, devices, or cosmetics in intrastate commerce; and (2) to inspect, at reasonable times, such factory, warehouse, establishment, or vehicle and all pertinent equipment, finished and unfinished materials, containers, labeling, and advertisements therein.
RCW 69.04.830 Publication of reports of judgments, orders and decrees
The director may cause to be published from time to time reports summarizing all judgments, decrees, and court orders which have been rendered under this chapter, including the nature of the charge and the disposition thereof.
RCW 69.04.840 Dissemination of information
The director may cause to be disseminated information regarding food, drugs, devices, or cosmetics in situations involving, in the opinion of the director, imminent danger to health or gross deception of, or fraud upon, the consumer. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the director from collecting, reporting, and illustrating the results of his or her examinations and investigations under this chapter.
RCW 69.04.850 Construction—1945 c 257
This chapter and the rules adopted hereunder shall be so interpreted and construed as to effectuate its general purpose to secure uniformity with federal acts and regulations relating to adulterating, misbranding and false advertising of drugs, devices, and cosmetics.
RCW 69.04.880 Civil penalty
Whenever the director finds that a person has committed a violation of a provision of this chapter, the director may impose upon and collect from the violator a civil penalty not exceeding one thousand dollars per violation per day. Each and every such violation shall be a separate and distinct offense. Imposition of the civil penalty shall be subject to a hearing in conformance with chapter 34.05 RCW.
Federal Legal Sanctions
The possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs is prohibited by federal law. Strict penalties are enforced for drug convictions, including mandatory prison terms for many offenses. The following information, although not complete, is an overview of federal penalties for first convictions. All penalties are doubled for any subsequent drug conviction(s).
Federal Penalties for Alcohol Offenses
18 U.S.C. 1952: Anyone who travels in interstate or foreign commerce or uses the mail or any facility in interstate or foreign commerce, with the intent to: (a) distribute the proceeds of any unlawful activity; or (b) commit any crime of violence to further any unlawful activity; or (c) otherwise promote, manage, establish, carry on, or facilitate the promotion, management, establishment or carrying on, of any unlawful activity, may be subject to the following penalties: individuals found guilty of conduct related to paragraphs (a) or (c) may be fined up to $10,000, and/or imprisoned for up to five years. Individuals found guilty of conduct related to paragraph (b) may be fined up to $10,000, and/or imprisoned for up to 20 years. If death results from the conduct, imprisonment may be for any period of years up to life in prison. For the purposes of this paragraph, “unlawful activity” includes any business enterprise involving liquor on which the Federal excise tax has not been paid.
Federal Drug Trafficking Penalties
Penalties for federal drug trafficking convictions vary according to the quantity of the controlled substance involved in the transaction as seen in the charts below. If death or serious bodily injury result from the use of a controlled substance which has been illegally distributed, the person convicted on federal charges of distributing the substance faces mandatory life sentence and fines ranging up to $8 million. Penalties for federal drug trafficking convictions vary according to the quantity of the controlled substance involved in the transaction. The following list is a sample of the range and severity of federal penalties imposed for first convictions. Penalties for subsequent convictions are twice as severe. Persons convicted on federal charges of drug trafficking within 1,000 feet of a University (21 USC 845a) face penalties of prison terms and fines which are twice as high as the regular penalties for the offense, with a mandatory prison sentence of at least 1 year.
Federal Legal Sanctions for Alcohol and Drug Offenses
The possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs is prohibited by federal law. Strict penalties are enforced for drug convictions, including mandatory prison terms for many offenses. The following information is an overview of federal penalties for first convictions. All penalties are doubled for any subsequent drug conviction(s).
18 U.S.C. 1952 Federal Penalties for Alcohol Offenses
Anyone who travels in interstate or foreign commerce or uses the mail or any facility in interstate or foreign commerce, with the intent to: (a) distribute the proceeds of any unlawful activity; or (b) commit any crime of violence to further any unlawful activity; or (c) otherwise promote, manage, establish, carry on, or facilitate the promotion, management, establishment or carrying on, of any unlawful activity, may be subject to the following penalties: individuals found guilty of conduct related to paragraphs (a) or (c) may be fined up to $10,000, and/or imprisoned for up to five years. Individuals found guilty of conduct related to paragraph (b) may be fined up to $10,000, and/or imprisoned for up to 20 years. If death results from the conduct, imprisonment may be for any period of years up to life in prison. For the purposes of this paragraph, “unlawful activity” includes any business enterprise involving liquor on which the Federal excise tax has not been paid.
Federal Drug Trafficking Penalties
Penalties for federal drug trafficking convictions vary according to the quantity of the controlled substance involved in the transaction as seen in the charts below. If death or serious bodily injury result from the use of a controlled substance which has been illegally distributed, the person convicted on federal charges of distributing the substance faces mandatory life sentence and fines ranging up to $8 million. Penalties for federal drug trafficking convictions vary according to the quantity of the controlled substance involved in the transaction. The following list is a sample of the range and severity of federal penalties imposed for first convictions. Penalties for subsequent convictions are twice as severe. Persons convicted on federal charges of drug trafficking within 1,000 feet of a University (21 USC 845a) face penalties of prison terms and fines which are twice as high as the regular penalties for the offense, with a mandatory prison sentence of at least 1 year.
20 U.S.C. 1091: Students convicted under federal or state law for the sale or possession of drugs will have their federal financial aid eligibility suspended. This includes all federal grants, loans, federal work study programs, and more. Students convicted of selling drugs will be ineligible for two years from the date of the first conviction, and indefinitely for the second offense. Those who lose eligibility can regain eligibility by successfully completing an approved drug rehabilitation program.
21 U.S.C. 845(a): Persons convicted on federal charges of drug trafficking within 1,000 feet of a university face penalties of prison terms and fines which are twice as high as the regular penalties for the offense, with a mandatory prison sentence of at least 1 year.
Federal Drug Possession Penalties
21 U.S.C. 844(a): 1st Conviction: May be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not more than 1 year, and shall be fined a minimum of $1,000, or both. After 1 prior drug conviction: Shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment for not less than 15 days but not more than 2 years, and shall be fined a minimum of $2,500. After 2 or more prior drug convictions: Shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment for not less than 90 days but not more than 3 years, and shall be fined a minimum of $5,000. Special sentencing 23 provisions for possession of crack cocaine: Shall be imprisoned not less than 5 years and not more than 20 years, and fined a minimum of $1,000 if: (a) 1st conviction and the amount of crack possessed exceeds 5 grams; or (b) 2nd crack conviction and the amount of crack possessed exceeds 3 grams; or (c) 3rd or subsequent possession and the amount of crack possessed exceeds 1 gram.
21 U.S.C. 853(a)(2) and 881 (a)(7): Forfeiture of personal and real property used to possess or to facilitate possession of a controlled substance if that offense is punishable by more than 1 year imprisonment.
21 U.S.C. 881(a)(4): Forfeiture of vehicles, boats, aircraft or any other conveyance used to transport or conceal a controlled substance.
21 U.S.C. 853a: Denial of Federal benefits, such as student loans, grants, contracts, and professional and commercial licenses, up to 1 year for first offense, up to 5 years for second and subsequent offenses.
18 U.S.C. 922(g): Ineligible to receive or purchase a firearm. Miscellaneous: Revocation of certain Federal licenses and benefits, e.g. pilot licenses, public housing tenancy, etc., are vested within the authorities of individual Federal agencies.
Questions concerning the Drug and Alcohol Prevention Program (DAAPP) may be directed to
the Public Safety Director Fernando Moratalla at (425) 564-5710.
Last Updated October 16, 2026