Good Samaritan Policy

When a student or organization assists an intoxicated individual in procuring the assistance of Safety and Security, local or state police, and/or medical professionals, neither the intoxicated individual, if a Dartmouth student, nor the individual or group who assists will be subject to formal College disciplinary action for (1) being intoxicated, or (2) having provided that person alcohol. This refers to isolated incidents only and does not excuse or protect those individuals or organizations who flagrantly or repeatedly violate the Student Alcohol Policy.

To encourage medical intervention without repercussions, Dartmouth College and the State of New Hampshire have instituted a 'Good Samaritan' Law/Policy in their respective jurisdictions.

Dartmouth College developed the 'Good Samaritan' Policy, granting more access to life-saving medical care by encouraging witnesses and victims of alcohol or drug overdoses to communicate their need for medical attention to Safety & Security, local police, fire, or medical personnel. Use of the 'Good Samaritan' Policy applies when the intoxicated/impaired student(s) agree to a regimen of medical treatments, assessments, recommendations, and follow-ups developed by the Student Wellness Center and/or Dartmouth Health Services. If applied, the 'Good Samaritan' Policy dictates that the reporting party or organization will not be subject to disciplinary action relating to violations of the Alcohol Policy. Dartmouth College cannot prevent action my local, state, or federal authorities nor can Dartmouth College prevent the disclosure of the students' history related to the 'Good Samaritan' Policy. 

The State of New Hampshire also passed 'Good Samaritan' Laws similarly used to encourage witnesses and victims of alcohol and/or drug overdose to communicate the need for life-saving medical assistance by contacting local first responders.

Both state legal statutes ensure the protection of victims and witnesses of alcohol and/or drug overdose from arrest, prosecution, and/or conviction when immediate, life-saving care is necessary. These waived penalties apply under specific circumstances and does not limit law enforcement action towards others not protected by either of these statues.

Go to New Hampshire Revised Statutes Title XXX - Occupations and Professions Title 318-B - Controlled Drug Act Section 318-B:28-b - Immunity From Liability. and Title XIII - Alcoholic Beverages Title 179 - Enforcement, Requirements and Penalties Section 179:64 - Immunity From Liability. for more information on 'Good Samaritan' Laws in the State of New Hampshire.