Even students of legal drinking age are subject to alcohol regulations in Sacramento State’s residence halls.

Director of Housing and Residential Life Michael Speros said although Sac State is not a “dry campus,” the residence halls are still subject to university policy.

“As there are restrictions to ‘time, place and manner’ listed in the university policy, we also have similar guidelines,” Speros said.

The policy regarding alcohol states 21-year-olds are allowed to drink, but are restricted to a maximum quantity of one liter of wine, one liter of hard liquor or one 12-pack of 12-ounce beer or wine containers.

Students of legal drinking age must consume alcohol in their own room with the door closed and no students younger than 21 present, according to the policy. Alcohol games and parties from room-to-room are prohibited.

Those under 21 cannot possess or consume alcohol in the residence halls, nor can they transport alcoholic containers.

The American River Courtyard suites and five residence halls accommodate approximately 1,600 students, according to the 2011-12 student handbook.

Generally, students above freshman level live in the American River Courtyard, which may pose problems if students of legal drinking age room with minors.

“We continue to review and refine our policy and sanctioning levels based on student behavior and best practices,” Speros said. “We currently are reviewing how we deal with alcohol consumption in the American River Courtyard since students 20 years and older can reside in this hall. This creates some challenges when you have students of legal age living with students under 21.”

Junior criminal justice major Marc Pella has lived in the American River Courtyard for a year and said he feels enforcement of these regulations are lacking.

“They enforce these rules by watching what people bring in past the front desk. However, you can just put it in your backpack or purse if you have more than what’s allowed,” Pella said. “I feel that the policies are not effective at all … it’s so easy to sneak in alcohol … no one really pays attention to this rule.”

Junior government major Tony Flores, however, said the desk attendants are strict.

“If you are 21 bringing in alcohol, you have to bring it in a discreet, opaque container,” Flores said. “If you’re carrying it where it’s visible, they will ask to see your I.D.”

Flores said the desk attendants are responsible for watching everyone who enters the residence halls late at night.

“If you are too drunk, they will contact the (Resident Advisor),” Flores said.

Speros said the policy is reinforced by the guidelines set by the university but can also be influenced by best practices within the college system, legal guidance and student behavior on campus.

“Our goal is to educate and help students make smart choices when it comes to consuming alcohol,” Speros said.

Alex Slavas can be reached at [email protected].