Smoking Ban Divides Students Final

Smoking Ban Divides Students

A decision to make Texas State University a smoke free campus in fall 2011 has left students divided.

Texas State University became a tobacco-free campus on August 1, 2011. The decision was made in an effort to help reduce health risks. The tobacco policy states: "The university prohibits smoking and the use of all tobacco products on all university property." According to an announcement that President Denise Trauth made, the American College Health Association conducted a survey in 2010 revealing that 67 percent of students and 75 percent of faculty were in favor of a tobacco-free campus.





The students are split on whether they think this is a good move or not. Some feel that the decision to ban the usage of tobacco on campus was necessary and consider it to be a good thing.

"I agree with it and I feel we shouldn't be allowed to smoke on campus," said Kaitlin Moore, electronic media junior. "I think it promotes healthier habits and will make our campus cleaner for everyone."

Others think that the ban was not a good idea and that the policy is creating new problems.

"I know a lot of people are upset about it and I know there is a lot more tension between smokers and nonsmokers," said Hannnah Schneiderman, English and philosophy sophomore.

When students were asked if the ban was being enforced, many were in agreement.

“No, I don't think so. There is just those nasty looks," said Schneiderman.

"No, not at all. I see several people smoking on campus still," said Seth Davis, communication design senior. "Yeah it's in hidden areas but it's a rule, you've been informed, so abide by it."

As you can see, not everyone agrees with the complete ban of tobacco on campus but some students have suggestions on how the situation could have been handled.

"Maybe a better solution would be to have designated smoking areas," said Colin Sutton, geography junior.

Texas State University has made an effort to help students stop smoking, if they choose to do so. According to the Texas State website, "The Student Health Center has a smoking cessation program that is free for all enrolled students."

Only time will tell if the acceptance of this new policy will gain the respect of all smokers and nonsmokers, or if there will become a need to revise the policy.