On Behalf of the MCC Students, Student Government Supports a Smoke-Free Campus

We, the students of Middlesex Community College believe that it is the obligation of an institution of higher learning to promote a healthy educational environment for all members of the campus community.   We implore the administration of this institution to join the nation-wide efforts and go smoke-free as soon as possible.

Second-hand smoke (and other smoking related concerns such as litter and spitting) has been a growing concern among the Middlesex community.  In 2007, Student Government and the Student Association for Wellness and Related Education at MCC researched and proposed a number of solutions to the administration.  In 2008, the 50 foot policy was adopted at the College and advertised in college publications and on stickers at building entrances.  It is the opinion of Student Government that this solution is not working.

At the end of 2007, CNN.com reported that 60 campuses were smoke-free.  In slightly over a year, that number has more than doubled. The American Lung Association now lists close 150 colleges.  A number of these are community colleges.  Nearby Northern Essex Community College has since joined that list.

Student Government has been asking their peers at Middlesex about the issue.  Preliminary surveys of students suggest that 17% of the student body is smoking on campus.  62% are aware of the current policy.  57% are in favor of going smoke-free ) (17% say maybe).

Last academic year, Student Government united in a decision to pursue their smoke-free campus campaign by collecting student signatures in support of this initiative beginning Thursday, April 9, 2009.   At this time, they have received close to 1000 student signatures in support of this initiative. Click here to add your name! Simultaneously, these student leaders will continue to research how other campuses have made this change - the transition, implementation and impact on the members of the campus communities.  They will also continue to solicit feedback from the MCC College community on the need for and feasibility of a smoke-free campus.

Questions being considered include:

1. What are the concerns?  (ie. second hand smoke, litter, etc.)
2. How smoke-free is smoke-free?  Will there be designated areas for smokers (i.e. NECCO allows for it in personal vehicles)?
3. How will violations be enforced?
4. What programs and services can be offered for the smoking population?
5. What would be the timeline for implementation?
6. How would the College make the transition as smooth as possible?  How would it be publicized?

Current MCC Policiy on a Smoke-Free Environment

In concert with the Massachusetts Smoke-Free Workplace Law, MCC has developed a policy to protect employees, students and visitors from health hazards resulting from exposure to secondhand smoke. This policy applies to all people on MCC campuses, including, but not limited to, students, faculty, staff, visitors, and contractors.

Smoking is prohibited in all facilities and work areas, including, but not limited to, common and private work areas, elevators, hallways, restrooms, cafeterias, employee lounges, and all other enclosed or outdoor work areas. In addition, smoking is prohibited in all vehicles owned, operated or controlled by MCC.

The law allows for smoking in an outdoor space, provided that the outdoor space is physically separated. Smoking is prohibited outdoors within fifty (50) feet of any building doorway or, if necessary because of architectural characteristics, within a specifically designated area abutting a building. All smoking materials must be disposed of in appropriate receptacles. Compliance with this policy is mandatory. All members of the MCC community are expected to respect the rights of others, and the rules of the College.

Violations of this policy may be reported to campus security and managers.  Sanctions may be applied for violations of this policy, including but not limited to disciplinary action.