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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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What is the CSUDH Policy on Systemwide Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment?
Effective September 1, 2017, smoking, tobacco, and vaping is prohibited on university property, facilities, grounds, parking structures, private vehicles parked on university grounds, university-owned vehicles, and structures owned or leased by the university. The use, sale, distribution, or advertising of tobacco products is prohibited on the campus. In addition, no organization sanctioned by the university will be able to accept money or sponsorships from companies or other entities engaged in the manufacturing of tobacco products; and the university cannot accept gifts or grants from tobacco companies. Also, university publications can’t accept any form of advertising of tobacco products.
Who does this policy affect?
All university employees, students, and visitors will be expected to adhere to the Policy on Systemwide Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment while on CSUDH property.
What does Smoke, Tobacco, Vape Free mean?
Smoking or use of any tobacco product is not permitted in any CSUDH facilities or grounds. Tobacco product does not include any cessation product specifically approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for use in treating nicotine or tobacco dependence. Tobacco products and devices include, but are not limited to, the following examples:
- Cigars
- Pipes (including Hookahs)
- Electronic smoking devices like e-cigarettes
- Smokeless tobacco and nicotine delivery systems (e.g., chewing tobacco, snuff, and snus)
- Simulated tobacco products that imitate or mimic tobacco products (e.g., herbal, cloves, bidis, and kreteks)
For more information on prohibited products, please see "Section II: Definitions" of EO 1108.
Will the policy remain on effect on weekends?
The Policy on Systemwide Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment is in effect 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Isn't this Policy on Systemwide Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment a violation of my civil and constitutional rights?
There is no "right to smoke" under state or federal law. CSUDH has the authority to govern the use of university property and regulate its use. Smoking in public places produces secondhand smoke, which has been shown to harm others, even if they do not smoke. Banning smoking at CSUDH protects everyone from exposure to secondhand smoke while they are on campus. If someone wishes to smoke, they may freely do so off CSUDH property. Court rulings maintain that tobacco users do not have the legal right to expose others to secondhand smoke, a Class-A carcinogen, and they are not entitled to protection against discrimination as addicts or as disabled persons according to Assembly Bill 846, Governor’s Executive Order W-42-93.
Does the Policy on Systemwide Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment apply to tailgate gatherings and events at outdoor stadiums and fields?
Yes. All events that take place on CSUDH property, including tailgate gatherings and outdoor events, still fall into the smoke, tobacco, and vape free zones.
Can I use tobacco in my own vehicle within the Smoke, Tobacco, Vape Free zones?
No, a vehicle parked on a CSUDH parking lot/structure or on a street within the borders of the CSUDH campus is still within the boundaries of the smoke, tobacco, and vape free zone, and must be moved off-campus if you want to smoke within the vehicle.
How will campus visitors know that CSUDH is a Smoke, Tobacco, Vape Free institution?
Signage about our smoke-free campus will be placed throughout CSUDH grounds and buildings. The CSUDH Breathe Freely Policy website is accessible to visitors.
Have other universities implemented a smoke-free campus?
Yes. As of September 1st, 2017, all 23 CSU campuses are smoke, tobacco, and vape free.
How will this change make a positive difference at CSUDH?
CSUDH is committed to protecting the health and safety of university employees, students and visitors on the CSUDH main campus and ancillary campuses and properties. Creating a smoke, tobacco, and vape free environment allows for a healthy, comfortable and productive living, learning and working environment.
Will the university require people to quit using tobacco products?
No. CSUDH acknowledges that the use of tobacco products is a personal choice. However, the use of tobacco does not fit with the culture of health and wellness CSUDH encourages. Though some may choose to use tobacco products off campus, by not smoking on university property CSUDH can better protect those who choose not to smoke from the effects of secondhand smoke, as well as help those who are trying to quit tobacco.
What resources are available to help those who want to quit tobacco?
A smoker who wishes to quit can increase his/her chances of success by using available resources such as those listed on our website. Please visit the "Tools for Quitting" section.
What are the consequences for people who violate the Policy on Systemwide Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment?
Students and employees are required to abide by all university policies in their day-to-day activities at CSUDH.
Can I use the money I put aside in my flexible spending account to pay for costs related to smoking cessation aids and counseling that are not covered by insurance?
Money set aside in your flexible spending account can be used for your out-of-pocket expenses toward smoking cessation paraphernalia including counseling with a doctor's prescription.
