Air Force Instruction 44-121 sets stringent standards

  • Published
  • By Ann Marie Sutter
  • Air Force Flight Test Center Judge Advocate's Office
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  An Air Force official guidance memorandum was released June 9 which amends Air Force Instruction 44-121, the "Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program (ADAPT)." This amendment prohibits the use of any intoxicating substances when used in any manner to alter mood or function. This includes the use of designer drugs (e.g. "Spice"), inhalants, propellants, solvents, household chemicals, any substance used for "huffing," any medication when used in a manner contrary to its medical purpose and naturally occurring intoxicating substances (e.g., Salvia divinorum).

The memorandum also prohibits possession of these substances if the purpose is to use the item in a prohibited way. The memorandum does not outlaw the possession of otherwise legal substances like solvents, household chemicals, glue and prescription drugs, but it does prohibit their use for intoxicating or mood altering purposes.

The new regulation makes the improper use or possession of these items a crime punishable under Article 92 of the UCMJ.

"While these drugs often aren't illegal in the civilian world, this memorandum makes them illegal to military members," Capt. Nick Peterson, Chief of Adverse Actions at Edwards Air Force Base Legal Office, said. "We take the abuse of these drugs very seriously, and we will be prosecuting these cases to the fullest extent allowed under the UCMJ, up to and including, a bad conduct discharge."

It is important to note that a drug test is not necessary for an abuser to be dealt with legally. Impairment or possession alone is enough. Further, Airmen should be aware that they can be held criminally responsible for their dependent's possession of a banned substance.

Air Force Instruction 44-121 governs the ADAPT program and provides guidance for the identification, treatment and management of personnel with substance abuse problems.

"Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment policies and programs have been thoroughly integrated into every facet of Air Force core values, quality of life, and force management. The objectives of the ADAPT Program are to promote readiness, health and wellness through the prevention and treatment of SA; minimize the negative consequences of SA to the individual, family, and organization; provide comprehensive education and treatment to individuals who experience problems attributed to SA and to return identified substance abusers to unrestricted duty status or assist them in their transition to civilian life," Captain Peterson said.

Air Force members with substance abuse problems are encouraged to seek assistance from their unit commanders, first sergeants, substance abuse counselors or military medical professionals.