FAQ - Tobacco Policy

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What are the college's boundaries for the purpose of defining college property?
 
The boundaries include any property owned, operated, leased, occupied, or controlled by Odessa College. For purposes of this policy, OC  property includes, but is not limited to, all buildings and structures, open-air recreational facilities, sidewalks, parking lots, walkways, and college-owned or leased vehicles.
 
How will the policy be enforced?
 
Education is key to implementing this policy. We will make people aware of the new policy through electronic messaging, signage, and marketing. An explanation of the policy will be communicated to all students and employees. Event planners and/or coordinators should include information about the policy in materials distributed to all outside groups that use college facilities.
 
The expectation is that persons will voluntarily comply with the policy. It is the responsibility of everyone on campus to politely inform others of the policy and ask that they limit tobacco use to designated areas.
 
Does the policy apply to visitors to campus?
 
Yes. Organizers and attendees at public events, such as conferences, meetings, public lectures, social events, cultural events, and sporting events using college facilities, are required to abide by the policy. Organizers of such events are responsible for communicating the policy to attendees.
 
Is the college requiring that people quit using tobacco products?
 
No. However, we are encouraging current tobacco users to explore this option. The college is committed to supporting all students and employees who wish to stop using tobacco products with cessation resources. Students, faculty, and staff choosing to continue using tobacco products may do so, but only on their own time and in areas not owned, operated, leased, occupied, or controlled the college. (except in the specially designated tobacco use areas)
 
Will the use of e-cigarettes be permitted?
 
No. E-cigarrette use is prohibited on college property for purposes of this policy. (except in the specially designated tobacco use areas)
 
 
Does the Smoke-free Environment Policy prohibit the use of chewing tobacco on campus?
 
Yes. The use of all tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco products like chewing tobacco and snuff, is prohibited on all college property or in college vehicles for purposes of this policy. (except in the specially designated tobacco use areas)
 
 
What if people don't abide by the policy?
 
For visitors, we believe reminders about the designated tobacco use areas will be important and the college will provide notice on college materials, websites, vendor contracts and for special events. For students and employees, we expect cooperation with a policy. The college will evaluate reports of repeated concerns and implement actions for resolution using existing methods of enforcement for college policy violations.