UT to implement stricter smoking policy

Smokers may lose their favorite place to light up on the University of Toledo campus, starting on August 15. That's when a new tobacco policy will go into effect.

The Health Science campus has been tobacco-free since 2006 but the foundation is now in place, literally, for a stricter policy on the main campus and its satellite branches.

You will notice digging going on between the Nash, White, and Dowd residence life buildings. Under construction is an outside shelter that will keep smokers confined.

It is one of only seven areas on the main campus where smoking will be allowed.

UT senior Jeff Schlekie responded to the stricter policy, saying, "You know, too many people do smoke cigarettes at the front door entrances all the time, so this should help."

The policy was created to reduce the effects of secondhand smoke and help students and employees cut back or quit smoking.

Junior Matthew Ellis is ready for the change, saying, "A lot of times they don't stay 30 feet away from the building, especially if it is raining or something. They will be right by the doors, and I personally can't stand the smell of smoke."

The university says the new policy will be "consistently" enforced among all students, faculty, staff, and visitors. But there will be those who do not support it, including sophomore Spencer Wotring, who says it's not time to take away some of the freedom to puff away.

"No, I don't think it's a good idea because smoking is not illegal and it's an addiction for most people so they really can't help it. I mean, it's something they've got to do so there's no reason why they should do it," Wotring said.

The policy also includes chewing tobacco, SNUS, cigars, and pipes but tobacco use will be permitted in personal vehicles.