OSU-Oklahoma City announces tobacco-free plan

Thursday, October 4, 2007

In a move to better protect the health of its staff, faculty, students, and visitors, Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City is going smoke and tobacco-free. 

Effective Jan. 1, 2008, OSU-OKC will prohibit using all tobacco products, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipes and smokeless tobacco on campus.

“OSU-OKC is committed to the promotion of wellness and healthy living for its employees and students,” said Dr. Jerry Carroll, OSU-OKC president.  “Part of that commitment involves taking a role in discouraging the use of tobacco.”

According to state health officials, smoking kills more than 6,000 Oklahomans every year.

In preparation for the tobacco ban, OSU-OKC is advising the campus and community of the new initiative, as well as providing free smoking cessation classes and other support for those wanting to give up tobacco.

The tobacco-free policy applies to buildings, grounds and parking lots leased, owned, or operated by OSU-OKC. Tobacco use will also be prohibited in any school-leased or owned vehicle. The new policy will apply to all persons on campus, including employees, students and visitors.

OSU-Stillwater recently approved a similar ban, which will go into effect July 1, 2008.