University of Utah to enforce campuswide tobacco-free policy

After more than a year of no smoking allowed on campus at the University of Utah, the school will fully enforce its tobacco-free policy, including during public events and football games. | Jordan Allred, Deseret News

No smoking at U. football games

SALT LAKE CITY — After more than a year of no smoking allowed on campus at the University of Utah, the school will fully enforce its tobacco-free policy, including during public events and football games.

There will be no designated smoking areas at Rice-Eccles Stadium or the Jon M. Huntsman Center.

It’s the latest step for the university, which banned smoking on campus in May 2018 after more than a decade of discussions. A student-led initiative spurred the current tobacco-free policy, which asks that people refrain from using tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes and other nicotine products, while on campus.

The policy applies to everyone — 24 hours a day, seven days a week, according to U. spokesman Shawn Wood.

The U. is the latest to join more than 1,800 colleges and universities across the country that have gone 100% smoke and tobacco free. Wood said the school’s policy aims to “promote a healthy, tobacco-free environment for our students, staff, faculty and visitors.”

The campus community and fans have had a year to learn about the rule and smoking cessation services offered through student and employee health services and wellness programs. It will be fully enforced throughout campus, including on any property owned by the university, such as buildings, parking lots, recreational areas, athletic venues, sidewalks and streets, as well as hospitals and clinics.

Football fans will not be permitted to leave the stadium, as re-entry will not be granted after a ticket has been scanned for entry, the university states.

More information can be found online, at tobaccofree.utah.edu.

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