Is a tobacco free campus fair to all?

Brandon Searcy

02/14/2012

MC 1313

TTH-930-1050

Is a tobacco free campus fair to all?

With Texas State University becoming a tobacco free campus before the start of the 2011 fall semester to minimize health risks, and putting students in a divide about the policy.

 The Texas State University tobacco ban was implemented on August 1, 2011. The policy states “Texas State University is committed to maintaining healthy and safe campuses in San Marcos and in Round Rock.” In President Trauth’s announcement over the policy she states “Our decision to become a tobacco-free university is based on the scientific evidence regarding the harmful effects and health risks of tobacco.”

While there is a difference in opinion between students about the tobacco ban, some believe it will make an impact and be more pleasurable for everyone.

"It's one of the best things to happen on campus in a long time." Seth Davis, communication design senior said when asked how he felt about the smoking ban.

"No, I don't anymore.” said Seth, when asked if he smoked. “I do not want to die young and be unhealthy."

"It's a positive change for the school.” said Courtney Williams, social work. “It won't work 100% but it's a step in the right direction."

Others believe that smokers aren’t being fairly treated and they have the right to use tobacco on campus.

"I don't like it because you should be able to smoke where you want to." said Hannah Schneiderman, English and philosophy sophomore.

"At first I was a little pissed off.” said Tiffany Rainey, English Major “It was so sudden." When asked if she has been confronted about smoking on campus, "Girls have said hateful things.” said Tiffany “One girl told me, 'You're wrong for that.'"

With the conflict of interest between students about the Tobacco Policy, you wonder if it will be embraced or will a plan that “meets in the middle” so all students can be happy.

Sources

Texas State Tobacco Policy- http://www.txstate.edu/effective/upps/upps-04-05-02.html

President Trauth’s Tobacco Policy Announcement- http://www.healthcenter.txstate.edu/SERVICES/tobacco-free.html

Seth Davis, communication design senior

Tiffany Rainey, English Major- 4.0 Student

Courtney Williams, Social Work

Hannnah Schneiderman, English and philosophy sophomore.