TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — Students and staff at the University of Alabama will return from the holiday break to a smoke-free campus.
The new policy, announced in November, begins Thursday, the first day of 2015, and applies to students, faculty, staff, campus visitors and contractors. The university resumes normal business hours on Jan. 5, and classes for the spring semester begin Jan. 7.
UA announced plans to go smoke-free as part of a policy change meant to improve health and reduce litter and the risk of accidental fire.
The policy does not cover smokeless tobacco products, though it does include electronic cigarettes and other vapor devices.
The university plans to offer cessation resources through various departments and websites as well as free classes. UA launched a website, www.ua.edu/smokefree, to assist with the policy change.
Assistance and resources will be available through the Student Health Center, Office of Health Promotion and Wellness, and the College of Community Health Sciences and University Medical Center.
UA will use information campaigns, including more campus signs, and reminders for smokers on campus to encourage adherence to the policy.