Why is SF State a 100% Smoke and Tobacco Free Campus?
In efforts to build a healthier and more resilient campus community, San Francisco State University has been moving towards being a smoke and tobacco free campus for many years. This provides faculty, staff, students, guests and the public with a campus that supports one’s individual freedom to learn, teach, work, think and take part in their intellectual endeavors in a fulfilling, rewarding, safe and healthy environment.
In concert with all California State University campuses, San Francisco State University will be 100% smoke and tobacco free. For more information please view Executive Order 1108, Policy on Systemwide Smoke and Tobacco Free Campus Environment. This supersedes Executive Order 599 and previous campus policies related to smoking and tobacco.
What are the benefits of being a smoke and tobacco free campus?
There are many benefits of being a smoke and tobacco free campus. Benefits include healthier lungs, heart and immune system for all members of the campus community. There are also environmental effects such as cleaner air and campus environment. Research shows there are behavioral health effects including an increase in individuals who successfully quit, decrease in people who start smoking, and supports those who have quit.
What does “smoke and tobacco-free” include?
Inhaling exhaling, burning or carrying any lighted or heated:
- Cigar, cigarette, cigarillo or pipe
- Electronic cigarette (e.g. vapes)
- Hookah
- Other tobacco products (e.g. chewing tobacco/snuff)
- Plant products (e.g. marijuana)
- Synthetic products (e.g. synthetic marijuana)
- Any component, part, or accessory of a tobacco product
Why are e-cigarettes or vaping included in this policy?
E-cigarettes or vapes, contain many chemicals including nicotine. Nicotine has been associated with behavioral and cognitive impairments which can effect memory and attention. Other chemicals commonly found in e-cigarettes or vapes have been associated with lung disease, and various cancers. E-cigarettes are not proven to help with tobacco cessation.
What about medical marijuana?
To be in compliance with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act, all drugs including the possession or use of medical marijuana is not allowed on campus.
Who does this policy apply to?
All members of the CSU community including:
- Students
- Faculty
- Staff
- Alumni
- University Volunteers
- Contractors or Vendors
- Visitors to any CSU campus or properties, including residential life property
Does this policy apply to all of SF State property?
Yes, this includes:
- Interior and exterior of any CSU campus
- Inside buildings, outdoor areas, including parking lots
- Vehicles (including private vehicles) on university property
- Owned, leased, rented by university or one of its auxiliaries
- Parking Structure
- Romberg Tiburon Center (RTC), and downtown campus
- Residential Life Property
Why can people in theater productions smoke?
You may see people using tobacco or nicotine products for traditional ceremonial activities of a recognized cultural and/or religious group, or student-authored or sponsored scene, showcase or workshop. These events must be authorized by the President or designee for a specific performance.
What should I do if I don’t have enough time to leave campus to smoke on my break?
We are aware that nicotine is a highly addictive drug and it is difficult to wait until you are not at school or work to smoke. Some may decide to use nicotine replacement products such as gum or lozenges for periods in which you cannot smoke. These products are available to you at low cost at the Student Health Services pharmacy.
What will happen if I smoke on-campus?
Those who violate the policy may be approached by BREATHE Advocates, who can offer resources and referrals for quitting. Regular violators may have administrative follow-up through the Dean of Students Office, or Human Resources department.
What on-campus resources are available to students who are interested in quitting?
Nicotine replacement gum and patches are available at low cost through the Student Health Services pharmacy. Students can also make an appointment online with a Student Health Services provider. Stress Free Quitting Kits are available for students who are in the process of quitting tobacco or e-cigarettes in the HPW Office.
What resources are available to staff and faculty?
Over the counter nicotine replacement therapy is available to employees through the Student Health Services pharmacy at a low cost. The Employee Assistance Program also offers tobacco cessation counseling. For information on health care providers that can provide tobacco cessation resources, please refer to the Benefits & Retirements Services.
Who do I contact if I have feedback on the policy?
If you have questions about Executive Order 1108, please call the Chancellor's Office Labor Relations at (562) 951-4400.