Breathe Easy: campus goes tobacco free

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On August 2, 2016

Missouri S&T became a tobacco-free campus on Aug. 1, 2016, joining over 1,000 other colleges and universities in the U.S. that have chosen to go tobacco-free or smoke-free.

tobaccofree_headerThe decision follows months of deliberation on campus, including open forums, online feedback, revisions to a proposed policy by a campus work group, and reviews by the Missouri S&T Chancellor’s Council and Chancellor’s Cabinet.

“Since initiating a policy proposition last fall, our campus community has discussed and debated the merits of becoming a tobacco-free campus,” says Chancellor Cheryl B. Schrader. “We have heard from many students, faculty and staff who attended our open forums, submitted comments online or signed petitions in support of a tobacco-free campus on one hand or supported designated smoking areas on the other hand. After considering all feedback, we have moved forward to make Missouri S&T a tobacco-free campus.

“It is in the best interest of our students, faculty, staff and visitors to promote a healthy environment for all,” Schrader adds. “While the use of tobacco is a personal choice, the health hazards related to tobacco use are well-documented.”

The tobacco-free policy will prohibit the use of any tobacco-derived or tobacco-containing product on property owned or controlled by Missouri S&T, including property under lease and vehicles owned, leased or rented by the university. The policy also extends to privately owned or leased vehicles while on campus property.

Products prohibited under the policy include cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and vapes, cigars and cigarillos, hookah-smoked products, pipes, and oral and nasal tobacco products. The use of products intended to mimic tobacco products or the smoking of any other substance are also prohibited. See tobaccofree.mst.edu for more details.

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On August 2, 2016. Posted in Around the Puck, Summer 2016