(1) This section applies to the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages by university employees and/or students when participating in a university sponsored or supported group trip including, but not limited to, group attendance at conferences, conventions, seminars, training, field trips, etc.

(2) Unless an exception has been granted per subsection (3) of this section, during supervised periods of a group trip (e.g., when work, instruction, or official business is being conducted) employees and students shall not possess or consume alcohol.

(3) Exceptions may be granted if the trip involves attending a function where the consumption of alcohol is a cultural or social expectation. Examples of such functions include, but are not limited to, receptions, cultural exchanges, and professional gatherings. Requests for exceptions must be made to the appropriate vice president. For approved requests, participants must:

(a) Comply with all applicable local laws; and

(b) Comply with all additional requirements and/or instructions provided as a condition of the approval.

(4) Notwithstanding any other rules or exceptions under this policy, university employees and students shall not:

(a) Consume alcohol during any period of time when they are responsible for the care and/or transportation of other group members;

(b) Transport alcoholic beverages in any vehicle, including personal and rental vehicles, used in support of a group trip.