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The purpose of the transition period is to provide opportunities for those who use tobacco to transition either to cessation or changing locations for tobacco use.  It also provides time for developing processes for education, enforcement and environmental adaptations.

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No, a tobacco free campus is not a violation of an individual’s civil rights.  There is no state or federal law that provides a “right” to smoke or use tobacco.  In addition, SCSU has the authority to govern and regulate the use of its facilities, vehicles and properties.

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Yes. Implementing a comprehensive policy that includes all forms of tobacco is more equitable, easier to enforce and has better health outcomes. The policy consistently addresses health issues, because according to research, there is no safe form of tobacco. Tobacco residue is harmful to the environment. In addition, smokeless tobacco use creates unwanted waste both outdoors and indoors. This creates additional debris cleanup work for campus maintenance staff.

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No, the policy only applies to the use of tobacco products, not possession of tobacco products.

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Yes, as long as tobacco users demonstrate respect for individuals and the environment.

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Efforts will be made to ensure that students and employees are aware of the variety of cessation resources both on campus (Student Health Services) as well as options available through health care providers (Human Resources).

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The decision to use tobacco is a personal choice. The purpose of the tobacco free policy is to create a healthy environment for all by prohibiting the use of tobacco on SCSU property. It is not the intention of the policy to force you to quit.

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No, the policy is consistent with the Minnesota State Statute that permits ceremonial tobacco use in traditional Native American spiritual or cultural ceremonies held on campus, as well as for instructional, experimental or artistic purposes.  The exemption to use tobacco in those applications must be approved through the appropriate campus processes.

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Yes, the residence halls have been smoke free since 2007; however the new tobacco free policy will also prohibit the use of smokeless tobacco in residence halls.

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Human Resources and supervisors are responsible for communicating the policy to new and current employees and those they supervise. A comprehensive communication plan has been developed to inform prospective and current students and visitors.

It is a shared responsibility of all SCSU students, employees and visitors not only to comply with this policy, but also to encourage others to comply with the policy, in order to promote a safe, clean and healthy environment. SCSU will provide the campus community with training and cessation opportunities designed to assist and support students and employees. In the event of non-compliance, the person will be informed of the SCSU tobacco-free policy and made aware of available cessation resources and support. Should that person continue to not comply with the policy, a report will be made to the appropriate office; in the case of an employee, to that person’s supervisor; in the case of a student, to the Office of Student Life and Development.

Visitors to campus will be informed of the tobacco-free policy and asked to comply.