Changes covers all forms of
nicotine, takes effect in fall
Samantha Douty
Managing editor
The Del Mar College Board of Regents, in a unanimous decision on May 12, approved a ban on all tobacco products on campus effective in the fall semester.
“We are hoping that after the ban is put into place Del Mar will no longer focus on academics, but also encompass the mind, body and soul of our students,” said Del Mar College President Mark Escamilla.
The ban will encompass all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, cigarettes, vaping pens, chewing tobacco and any other products or devices.
“I am aware of the health issues of tobacco products, but I still choose to smoke,” said student John Michael Caves. “It is my civil liberty to choose whether or not I smoke.”
Students and faculty members will not be allowed to smoke anywhere on campus. If they choose to smoke they will have to be off campus grounds.
“The reason for a smoke-free environment is to keep those students who are nonsmokers from getting secondhand smoke,” said Regent Carol Scott.
It is important that Del Mar starts moving in the direction of health and wellness in the community, Escamilla said.
The purpose of the ban is to promote and protect health, safety and welfare of the employees, students and the public, the board said.
“The campus will be completely smoke-free. Guests, students and faculty members will be asked to not smoke on campus,” said Tammy McDonald, executive director of human resources and administration. “There will be a few exceptions to the rule though. For instance, if research is being done, or it is relevant in a play or production, smoking may be allowed.”
Caves, the only person to speak against the ban at the meeting, said he didn’t see a need for the change.
“I think with the ban being put into place students will now be late to class because they have to go off campus to smoke a cigarette,” Caves said. “I think what we had already was a good balance between smokers and non-smokers. Smokers were expected to smoke 25 feet from any building on campus to give the non-smokers that barrier.”
