Changes in Smoking Policy on Campus FAQ’s

How is the new policy different from the old policy?

The policy on residential areas and academic buildings has not changed.  All university owned buildings are smoke-free.  What has changed is the policy on outdoor smoking. The previous policy stated that smoking was not permitted within 20 feet of the entrance and air intakes to buildings.  The new policy states that smoking is permitted in designated smoking areas (DSAs) only. The policy will add a fine for cigarette butt littering.

When is the new policy effective?

The DSAs will be established on March 1, 2009.  However, the policy will not go into full effect until August 1, 2009, in order to allow for outreach and policy reminders.

Will any warnings or fines be given during this time?

If someone is smoking outside of a DSA, they will be told that they are not permitted to smoke in that area.  There will be a grace period before fines are issued, beginning in August, 2009.

How will I know where the areas are located?

Maps of the DSAs will be posted on the EH&S and Student Health Service websites, as well as on posters around campus. The DSAs will be marked by cigarette disposal containers on campus.

Who determined the location of the DSAs?

A committee led by Environmental Health & Safety (E&HS) determined the locations. Eighteen people are on the committee, including smokers and nonsmokers. Representatives from Student Senate, the Greek community, GSA, Faculty Senate and Staff Council have been appointed by their respective groups.  Some departments including Campus Police, Housing and Dining, Campus Design, Student Dormitory Council and Facilities Management Services, were asked to send a representative.  Some individuals asked to be a member because of particular interest in the project.

How were the DSA locations determined?

The campus was divided into zones and each zone was assigned to a small group of committee members.  The small groups selected several areas within each zone based on certain criteria.   Once the zones were selected, a survey was sent to all campus community members.  The intent of the survey was to garner feedback regarding which sites were considered most favorable for persons working/living in a particular zone. After this information was collected, the committee made final site selections. 

Will the DSAs be under shelter?

At this time, the DSAs will not be under shelter.

As a member of the campus community, what can I do to support the smoking policy?

Learn about the policy and the resources available to assist anyone who wants to quit.  Whether you’re looking for yourself or for someone else, Health Services can equip you with information on the health risks related to smoking, as well as resources for quitting.  Remember that we all have a role to play in ensuring that the health and well being our campus community is supported and we must work together to keep our campus clean. As a member of this community, you can positively encourage others to follow the policy and offer information on resources for quitting.

If a student wants to quit smoking, what resources are available?

Students who want to quit should contact the Student Health Service.  They can receive information on how to quit, over-the-counter cessation aids (gum and patches), and/or a prescription for medication from Student Health.

Where can I get information on these topics?

Student Health Services can provide you with printed materials on health risks, benefits to quitting and cessation resources.