MT Tobacco-Free

Policy Specifics

  • The policy will restrict the use of all forms of tobacco products including, but not limited to, cigarettes, pipes, cigars, chewing tobacco, and snuff, as well as smokeless electronic cigarettes and other similar devices. 
  • It allows the use of tobacco products in private vehicles on campus. 
  • The policy went into effect July 1, 2011, but implementation is delayed until Jan. 1, 2012, to allow a transition period and to provide support to those wishing to cease tobacco usage.
  • Tennessee law already prohibits smoking in all buildings owned or operated by the state, which includes any University-owned or leased facilities, vehicles, and athletic venues. 
  • Previous policy previously allowed smoking 20 feet away from doorways, windows, ventilation systems, walkways, and gates.

 

Why is MTSU Tobacco-Free? 

  • We at MTSU are not alone in making such a move. More than 400 colleges and universities across the nation are completely smoke-free on campus. 
  • Across the state, universities like Austin Peay, Tennessee Tech, and East Tennessee State have enacted similar policies. 
  • We feel this policy is not about denying rights; it's about promoting and creating a healthy environment for all. 
  • We are not focusing on tobacco users as much as we are focusing on a behavior in public spaces we all share. Individuals can still use tobacco in their cars and at off-campus locations.
  • Student Health Services has reported treating students with asthma and other respiratory illnesses whose conditions are triggered by outdoor exposure to second-hand smoke.