Sunday, May 26, 2013

News
Troy Univ. Decides Enforcement for New Tobacco Ban
By Jessica Gertler


From the CBS 8 Troy Newsroom-- Troy University students are packing up and heading home for the summer, but when they come back, there will be a new rule on campus: No smoking or smokeless tobacco will be allowed.

The tobacco ban applies to all Troy campuses including those overseas. Recently, university leaders say they've decided how they will be enforcing this rule starting fall semester.

Come August 13, Troy University will be one of the first state schools to ban tobacco products.

"Our hope and desire is people will comply with the policy. If they don't, it will be like any other policy. With regards to employees, it will be handled through human resources policies regarding any kind of disciplinary action. With students, it will follow the student handbook," says Dean Herb Reeves. "There's no monetary fine or anything."

The no-tobacco policy was started by students to help their peers, faculty and staff kick the habit.
While some students think it's a great idea.

"I think it's better, because other folks may have a problem with smoking," says student Gavin Respress.

"That may be good, because I get tired of seeing guys with those bottles, and it's so disgusting," says student LaTaynya Stringer."

Some aren't so keen on the new rule.

"It may encourage you to leave, because so many other campuses are smoking campuses, so Troy might end up losing money," student Tayler Bishop.

"I have some friends that think this is over the line and infringing on people's rights," says student Kyle Crabtree.

University leaders say they will be offering help to those wanting to stop tobacco use. Already, they've posted tips on their website.