184 Responses to "ACC Going Smoke-Free in 2012"

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  By Thanh Dat NGUYEN October 5, 2011 - 2:43 pm

  thank you because it really does make it hard to enjoy being able to sit outside or in the hallways during break and have to smell cigarette smoke and cant breathe

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  By Susan Nichols/FBG October 5, 2011 - 3:29 pm

  Yea!!!!

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  By Laura October 5, 2011 - 4:57 pm

  I really find this unfair. I smoked for 20 plus years before quitting. I do not like the smell or the health implications. Yet to tell students, employees and visitors they can not smoke in the parking lot in their own vehicle or at the back fenced areas where no others are walking or around? Really? There are lots of people who would quit but they like it, I know this because that was my biggest obstacle, I enjoyed it. How again is this a free country? Sad sad days and more regulations to come. Wow!

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  By concerned student October 5, 2011 - 4:59 pm

  Although, in my opinion a smoke free campus is not so terrible…where is the students voice in this decision making? I am dual enrolled, and attend a university that just went smoke free. Within the process the Student Government was involved, and students given the chance to speak out or atleast have some say in what is happening to their college. I say THEIR college because it is because of student that the college exist in the first place. Without students, there is no ACC. The Board does a marvelous job in ensuring that ACC is top notch in many ways, however, in this case, it would have been beneficial to hear the students voice on this one! Here’s a thought: What if students went to your place of enjoyment, workplace, or home and began making changes without anyone else input? Would that be O.K.? I think not! Dear Administration, Remember the students in your decision making processes…afterall…this is THEIR house!

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  By Harlequin October 5, 2011 - 5:52 pm

  This is ridiculous. We have a smoking spot. Move us further. Who gives you the right? I do believe we live in the United States of America and our high tobacco taxes pay for a part of this school. And really, what does this mean:

  “…but costly facility improvements would have been required in order to comply with legal mandates…”

  A yellow line that puts us in a corner that says we need to smoke there? That does not cost much. Ridiculous!!!!!!!!!!

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  By Rachael October 5, 2011 - 7:32 pm

  Alright, ACC- This is AWESOME! Way to lead the movement, Austin-style!

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  By Lauren October 5, 2011 - 8:06 pm

  Not only do I appreciate ACC’s attempt to create a healthier environment. I am allergic to cigarette smoke, and the smoking has created a very limited environment for me. I am thrilled that I will be able to enjoy the beautiful day, study outside, and not be cooped up in the non-smoking building during my time on campus. Thank you!!!!

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  By Pamela Tajmajer October 5, 2011 - 9:28 pm

  Finally. I am so relieved I’ll be able to breath while I’m walking from class to class. I’m even going to be able to sit outside at a table and enjoy fresh air! Thank you!

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  By K October 5, 2011 - 11:12 pm

  This is GREAT! Now I can sit outside without having someone can sit next to me and light up a cig! Thanks!!

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  By Kenny M. October 6, 2011 - 7:03 am

  Just another case of a handful of people trying to control the lives of others. The Board of Directors have always asked for input with this subject in the past. Why not now?

  The money involved to create designated smoking areas is not an issue. This would be quite minimal compared to the normal daily expenditures at ACC. We already have DSA`s at several locations.

  I have, often, compared the administrative operations of ACC to that of Washington D.C. The stripping of our freedoms is one of the greatest threats to our society. Individual choice must be preserved.

  The Board of Directors is acting without input from faculty, staff, and students.

  We cannot allow this to happen!

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  By Stephen October 6, 2011 - 9:24 am

  I do agree that this isn’t fair to smoking students but I also have a question. Since Electric Cigarettes are around and don’t actually use tobacco but rather a nicotine fluid(or just a flavored fluid), are they also not allowed on campus? They don’t leave a foul odor in the air and they cant start a fire since its works with water vapors essentially.

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  By duck October 6, 2011 - 9:36 am

  i don’t think that people who smoke know how offensive it is to a non-smoker. i have thought that smokers should be limited to smoking in the parking lot since i’ve been at ACC, because who really follows the no smoking signs anyway? ppl light up right under them! i think this is a step in the right direction. i’m allergic to smoke, but what can i do about it? not go to school? not leave my house? it is what it is.

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  By just a thought October 6, 2011 - 10:22 am

  Well, maybe this means we will have no more excuses to be able to “breathe, study, be, exists, breath while walking, etc” and this will translate into more committed, healthier, happier students (that by 2012 will also not use drugs or alcohol) and a more understanding and tolerable people.

  I am so relieved cigarette smoke does not burn in colors…..

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  By Anthony October 6, 2011 - 11:00 am

  this is stupid. the people complaining that now they can FINALLY walk to and from classes without suffering through smelling tobacco is stupid too. Your classes are indoors so you don’t have to smell anything. Where was the student involvement in this decision? Makes no sense what so ever. When you’re outdoors, if you don’t want to be bothered by smokers, well move to where there are no smokers. How much money would it cost to implement these Designated Smoking Areas because I’ve seen a few of these around campus and all it is, is just one sign that says DSA and one place beside the sign to put the cigarette out so honestly that can’t cost too much. The people who thought of this are probably the same people saying that we should not allow guns on campus even with students and employees who are holders of a CHL.

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  By Anthony October 6, 2011 - 11:05 am

  ok now for my second thought. How is this for a healthier school? Most of the people who smoke have been doing so for a long period of time in their life and now it has become more of a stability, therapeutic habit. Veterans smoke to help clear their mind and stay focused and here goes the governing body making these decisions with no facts about how this will help lead to a healthier place. If we smoke, we know the health risk. It’s like riding a motor cycle with no helmet, we know what’s at risk when we do it

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  By S October 6, 2011 - 11:58 am

  This is Stupid!!! So much for a free country. Yes i smoke and if you dont wanna smell it dont stand by me there are plenty of places to be without people smoking around you. This is a college not a high school. If smoking is done outside its not noticeable unless you stand right next to the so quit whining and crying and take a few more steps so your not next to the smoker. If you cant breath when you smell smoke its probably because your a whimp.

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  By Beckez October 6, 2011 - 12:01 pm

  I am not a smoker but my concern is that there are many students who have problems feeling able, worthy, accepted and motivated to attend college. People who are just trying to get an associates so they can have a slightly higher standard of living, who are struggling to get an education as it is. This seems like one more reason for them to stay away. It feels like an SES (socio-economic-status) problem to me.

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  By Missing my Rights! October 6, 2011 - 12:09 pm

  It’s interesting that everyone is willing to trample on someone else’s right to choose to participate in a perfectly legal activity, because there are some that find it offensive. I would like to request that ACC implement a policy against offensive language and behaviors in other ways as well. If we are going to prohibit smoking, we must prohibit unhealthy foods, prohibit unhealthy beverages, like soda, coffee, and energy drinks. We must implement a place for students to go and list all of the behaviors they find offensive, so that policies can be made to prohibit them! When does this stop? Are we going to start burning books that offend us, or aren’t healthy for us? Like it or not, we as Americans, have the right to choose behaviors that aren’t healthy. Regulation is one thing, and quite an acceptable alternative, prohibition is NOT!!!!!

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  By D October 6, 2011 - 12:14 pm

  Stay OUT of the students lives. this is idiotic. Students should be able to make thier own choices. they have the right to smoke. anyone realize that the smoke dissipates within 3 feet. so if you dont wanna smell it dont walk next to the smokers. and if you cant figure that out you should not be in college.

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  By ACC Observer October 6, 2011 - 12:15 pm

  Offensive language and behaviors are addressed under the Student Code of Conduct.

  http://www.austincc.edu/admrule/1.04.006.htm

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  By nick brannan October 6, 2011 - 12:47 pm

  How ridiculous, oh i cant breathe somebody is smoking…MOVE AWAY! one by one rights are being taken away from people. nazis

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  By Tov October 6, 2011 - 1:05 pm

  One of my parents decided to stop smoking while he was taking a heavy load of classes and he just about flunked out in the process. Why? Because smoking wasn’t just a habit… it was also his moment of relaxation. A meditation, if you will. You can’t just take something like that away, and expect smokers to be “happier and healthier.” His solution was not to “quit smoking” but to moderate his smoking to where he was only smoking a couple of cigarettes a day. Which made him “healthier and happier.” This policy is just going to increase the stress of people who are already trying to balance school, children, and work. I can already imagine what my sociology professor will say about this: Thanks for reinventing class warfare acc trustees.

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  By Stephanie October 6, 2011 - 1:30 pm

  Thank you ACC! I know this isn’t a popular decision, but it needed to be made. The smoke on campus is imossible to get away from, and I’m tired of smelling smoke on myself all day or having to hold my breath when I go to class just because everyone smokes right by the doors. They are not making these rules to take away freedom, they are doing it to try to make things better. Maybe it isn’t the perfect solution, but it’s a start.

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  By You October 6, 2011 - 1:42 pm

  Thank you ACC!

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  By catherine October 6, 2011 - 2:01 pm

  it is just so insane how alot of people who are smokers do not have respect for non-smokers. there are over 7000 chemicals in each cigarette and it is so obnoxious and ignorant to actually sit there and smoke like its okay because its not. It is wrong for many reasons so therefore ACC should prohibit smoking on campus because its not fair to non smokers who have to stay cooped up inside just to stay away from the dangers of cigarette smoke. if you want to kill yourself and enjoy the harmful dangers of cigarettes then fine, have respect for the other people around you and move somewhere else so that you do not harm the other peoples health with over 7000 chemicals from your cigarette. smokers have to understand that its not fair or right or easy that non smokers have to get up and move just because someone else doesnt have the common sense or respect for other people, just because they want to smoke.

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  By ACCstudent45 October 6, 2011 - 2:02 pm

  Kuddos ACC. It may be a right/choice to smoke but I also have a right and choose to not smell cigarette smoke but unfortunately the stench travels. And while most doorways have a sign that reads you can’t smoke within 15 feet of it there is usually a group or an individual standing right next to it smoking. You may want to kill yourself by smoking but I shouldn’t have to worry about the the second hand smoke killing me. Smoke in your car.

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  By Happy October 6, 2011 - 2:06 pm

  Well the smokers are all unhappy about this, but the rest of us are literally breathing a sigh of relief. Smokers must realize that they are not just harming themselves but also making the rest of us smell it every day. If we had a large problem of students who wore too much perfume or refused to bathe and stank up the place, people would want that addressed too. Although perfume is not like smoking because it doesn’t harm the person using it, I am using this as an example because I don’t think smokers really know how offensive their nasty smoke is. They are angry because their “rights” are being taken away. What about my right to breathe fresh air outside?

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  By just a thought October 6, 2011 - 2:10 pm

  “Offensive language and behaviors are addressed under the Student Code of Conduct.”

  If you read carefully, it looks like this ACC administrative rule will have to be changed too!

  Maybe it is time to be more aware that “toxic/unhealthy” applies to many areas: behaviors, comments, substances, ideas, even thoughts, and that alienating others can be viewed as toxic and unhealthy ……. so it looks like everyone is producing some “second hand smoke” from these activities …. maybe there should be yet another regulation enforced….. until then, let the wind take care of it!

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  By Bill October 6, 2011 - 2:31 pm

  Thank you ACC. As a veteran lung Cancer survivor with only 1 lung left, I applaud your decision. Air is precious enough without it being filled with second-hand smoke.

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  By Miguel October 6, 2011 - 2:46 pm

  It was time.. Great news!

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  By c October 6, 2011 - 2:59 pm

  The cigarette smoke does not go only three feet far, it goes farther than that. I want to go sit outside but when i go out there, i cant breathe so i come inside and cant even sit anywhere near doors less than ten feet away because i can smell the cigarette smokeinside too. So i have to move which i shouldnt have to put more energy and effort to get away from the smoke, the smoke is supposed to get away from the campus.

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  By Me October 6, 2011 - 3:16 pm

  I think this is crazy. People who do smoke absolutly know how offensive it is to others who do not. That is exactlly why there are smoking areas and smokers abide with that…smokers arent trying to hurt others in thier own harmful proccess so why act like they are? People smoke, people love same sex, people do crazy things, but as far as im concerned I have seen many smokers on my campus abide fully to the rules of smoking on campus. Another question…are these cesation workshops free?!! Because to deny someone of their rights, without an acceptable alternative is tyrany.

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  By Mellissa October 6, 2011 - 4:43 pm

  People are going to smoke NO matter what. I am a cigarette smoker but I do want to quit. I would love the resources or even the encouragement of “hey you can do it” it is a VERY hard habit to kick but I will do it one day. IT JUST REALLY SUCKS THAT ACC WILL TAKE AWAY WITH THE SMOKING AREA…. 🙁

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  By Michelle Erickson October 6, 2011 - 4:51 pm

  I am so happy that this policy was put into place. I am very disappointed to see that so many pursuing higher education feel that it is their right to harm others in public places. Feel free to smoke as much as you want in your cars, homes, or any other private property. You don’t have the right to endanger my health.

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  By Steven October 6, 2011 - 4:55 pm

  The ACC Board of Trustees passed the resolution as a public health issue. This issue is not whether you are smoking, but whether you are exposing others to your smoke.

  To quote the CDC Fact Sheet on the Health Effects of Smoking, “there is no risk-free level of exposure to secondhand smoke.”

  http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/fact_sheets/secondhand_smoke/health_effects/index.htm

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  By Splash Vela October 6, 2011 - 5:02 pm

  I’ve never been more excited to go to an ACC campus. Especially Northridge! Being healthy and having to walk through a barrage of smokers to get to class can ruin a beautiful morning.Smokers, you should try walking through an area where something you are disgusted by is prevalent, could you do it everyday? As for the smokers, you can still smoke, you just can’t do it on campus. You’re rights aren’t being taken away; you are just being asked to care about other human beings at your campus and do it somewhere else. Is this too much to ask? Think of all the money you will save by not giving it to companies who are deliberately killing you in the process. You should thank the trustees for trying to save your lives and others. Thanks trustees!!!

  You now have a New Years Resolution that may save your life!

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  By D October 6, 2011 - 5:33 pm

  I for one am happy with the decision. Yes, I know it’s going to be hard for a lot of students, staff and faculty to handle this decision but, I believe it’s a good one. Even with the DSA you can still smell cigarette smoke as you walk between buildings, it’s everywhere. If I wanted to inhale cigarette smoke when all I want is to breath fresh air, then I would smoke. Thank you ACC for this decision.

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  By Terry October 6, 2011 - 5:56 pm

  I dont think this is the right thing to do. If i chose to smoke i should be able to, or at least have a place where it is ok on campus. The ones that think this is ok are the ones who dont smoke to begin with. the ones that are not ok with this are the smokers. yeah smoking is not good for you but some people like myself like to smoke. why should my life be more difficult to do some thing that is legal for me to do. this would be like telling the student body that they can only have diet drinks because their is an obesity issue, well im fit and take care of my self if i want a regular drink i should be aloud please think about that.

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  By Jason October 6, 2011 - 6:15 pm

  I am for and against this. More against than for though. Yes, I understand this takes away from students/visitors/etc. but truthfully students don’t listen or pay attention to signs. I’ve seen way to many students smoking right next to a non-smoking area sign at rio grande since day one. Hate to say it but some of it is b/c of them. Not saying all smokers are bad about this but b/c it is a bad habit(un-healthy) and the few students that don’t pay attention the smoker community as a whole has to feel the pain. Sucks but unfortuantely serves you right. I don’t mind smoke but when it blatanly says “Non-Smoking Area” and you sit right at the table and light up really upsets me. More so for the other students who now move to the smoking areas b/c smokers are not smoking there. Thank you ACC!!

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  By Alicia October 6, 2011 - 7:09 pm

  I recently quit smoking after struggling with that step for many years. Although I will admit that some of my peers at ACC could be more respectful about their habit, I also understand how much of a physical and psychological effect having to deprive yourself of cigarettes can have. Especially if this choice is not made of your own accord. I think this will have a negative effect on students who depend on smoking as a stress management tool, whether it is healthy life choice or not. This decision is extreme and unwarranted. ACC should expect to have a big percentage of angry and frustrated students.

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  By Vince October 6, 2011 - 7:33 pm

  Does no one check facts before making rules or assuming they know the truth, do a little research and you will find out that there is no link between second hand smoke and disease. The World Health Organization did a study and found no evidence of anything from second hand smoke. The EPA did a study and also found no link to disease from second hand smoke. After the EPA’s study they began telling people there was a link until a federal court found them to be in violation of the law for providing false information to the public. Our freedoms continue to taken away one at a time. ACC board, you should provide a place to smoke on campus. Remember some of your students have fought for this country, and now you strip us of our rights.

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  By A October 6, 2011 - 8:15 pm

  AWESOME!!!! So glad I dont have to put up with smelling those nasty things! It’s funny how smokers dont want to smoke in there homes b/c it smells but think it’s okay to smoke in public places where other people have to smell there disgusting habits! Nazis? Your watching too much FOX news, dont like the change? Drop out of ACC! or HEY take an online class where you can smoke at HOME where only YOU have to deal with the smell! O and when you get cancer or other health issues from smoking dont complain or cry! :)) GO ACC for joining in with other schools!

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  By She October 6, 2011 - 8:24 pm

  I definitely support this decision. I am not against smokers, and am a smoker of sorts myself, but the cigarette smoke is unbearable, mostly because people don’t stick to the designated areas. (Are there designated areas?) In any case, it stinks and gives me a headache! Sorry guys. Can’t they smoke in their car still?

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  By Aly October 6, 2011 - 8:25 pm

  I love how some students are comparing cigarettes to coffee and unhealthy food, when someone is eating a whataburger hamburger I could care less, unless it effected me by some ketchup falling on me, i could care less about the calories they are eating, on the other hand, cigarettes do KILL by 2nd hand smoke! So I/nor ANYONE should have to inhale 2nd hand smoke just because we attend the same school. Come up with a better argument, and your “right” is you can smoke cigarettes just not on the campus, so there not taking your right from you just saying you cant do it on campus, big deal! WAIT AN HOUR or TWO for a cigarette, WOW sooo hard! Sounds like the cigarette companies have yall just where they want yall…saddd..

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  By She October 6, 2011 - 8:26 pm

  D: the smoke does not dissipate within 3 ESPECIALLY if there are 20 smokers scattered across a 30 foot sidewalk.

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  By She October 6, 2011 - 8:30 pm

  “the people complaining that now they can FINALLY walk to and from classes without suffering through smelling tobacco is stupid too. Your classes are indoors so you don’t have to smell anything.”

  Yes … actually we do. When we are walking to and from classes … like you said in the previous sentence.

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  By AmyKnows2 October 6, 2011 - 9:01 pm

  Finally! I am thrilled this policy is going into effect. People that smoke have rights also, that is without question. However, those that smoke dont seem to realize that their choice shouldnt be a choice made for everyone. More and more research is proving that second and third hand smoke are equally bad for us, if not more so. I am tired of having to inhale the noxious fumes every time I enter or exit a building. Thank you, ACC!

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  By Shelly October 6, 2011 - 10:10 pm

  When walking outside smoke puff all over in your face. This is a wonderful decision.

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  By zcatz October 6, 2011 - 10:56 pm

  I am in full support of whatever measures are needed to clear the air of cigarette smoke outside of the ACC campus buildings. The majority of my time at ACC has been spent in the health sciences programs and I’ve always been surprised at the number of students that can sit through biology, anatomy, nursing, or any science lecture course and then light up a cigarette after class.

  I’m an ex-smoker. Quitting smoking is no easy task, but it can be done. And for your own health and the health of your fellow students trudging through all the same lectures and exams, it should be done.

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  By Libertyhillbily October 7, 2011 - 12:01 am

  Listen you smokers out there! I am tired of walking into the front door of the ACC buildings and going through a cloud of smoke. Yall wanna talk about rights? Yall wanna talk about free counrty? What about the rights of us non smokers? We have the right to clean air. Your BS smoke is attacking us. Yall need to quit that junk…..

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  By Jackie October 7, 2011 - 12:10 am

  I’m glad that ACC has finally done this.

  I should not have to go to school and walk through a puff of smoke from someone smoking in the distance.

  It doesn’t violate no ones right. I have a right to learn in a healthy and peaceful environment.

  When you think about it, smoking around other people can be considered assault since you are causing harm with second hand smoke.

  Thank you ACC

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  By jon doe October 7, 2011 - 8:30 am

  Then don’t sit near the desgnated smoking sections!

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  By just a thought October 7, 2011 - 9:09 am

  The irony of it all is that our cars are doing exactly the same thing some people claim cigarette smoke is doing. But of course then it is OK and although we regulate car emissions we do not do it as enthusiastically and we can care less that the rest of the world is affected by this.

  I agree with the the thinking of many here regarding the issue but what seems hypocritical is to hand pick your battles. Why not apply the same way of thinking to EVERYTHING? Are you ready to commit to this way of thinking and stop using a car and stop burning fuel?

  Maybe we have forgotten what “clean air” smells like?

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  By Jessica October 7, 2011 - 10:54 am

  As a smoker I would like to share my opinion on this. Yes everyone has rights including smokers AND non-smokers. So I agree that non-smokers shouldn’t have to “walk through a cloud of smoke everyday”. There’s your rights I’m happy for you. Now for the smokers rights – why not put us in a far corner and designate it a smoking area?? Ohh because “A college committee considered designating smoking areas on each ACC property, but costly facility improvements would have been required in order to comply with legal mandates” ARE YOU JOKING ACC?? Costly facility improvements? LOL The smoking areas we have now are nothing more than a sign. I MYSELF would be more than happy to paint a yellow line on the ground and put up a sign. Your statement is complete BS. And for the people who smoke in non-smoking areas TICKET THEM – More money for ACC right? And to all the people who have never smoked saying “Wait a few hours ohhh it’s sooo hard” YES IT’S HARD you have absolutely NO IDEA because you’re not a smoker so don’t sit here and act like you know anything about the feeling. Smoking a cigg b4 class relieves a lot of stress and helps me to relax and concentrate on what I need to do – Without one I’m a mess – Without one, I’ll be sitting in class thinking about a cigg the whole time instead of listening to the lecture. Whether you think that’s sad or not doesn’t change anything. So thank you ACC for making my studies more difficult rather than easily giving us a smoking area like we’ve had for years.

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  By Zach October 7, 2011 - 11:09 am

  Finally I can enjoy the courtyard, Thank you ACC

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  By Margaret October 7, 2011 - 11:28 am

  This is a positive move and ACC as usual makes a good decision. One problem with the smoking areas outdoors is the smoke drifts to the general airspace and even if you are not in the smoking area you smell and experience the smoke. Thank you – and looking forward to this.

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  By Krysten October 7, 2011 - 12:14 pm

  I for one do not agree with this. Laura has a point, how is this a free country when the students weren’t even allowed to vote! We pay to go to this school. I for one refuse to attend any college that has completely banned smoking. Good Luck with banning it. You will not see me back at your school next semester.

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  By Jennifer October 7, 2011 - 12:19 pm

  ACC is aligning themselves with other colleges. Most of the students at ACC transfer, and many of these schools have gone to a non-smoking campus. Texas State started this semester, and I believe UT has been smoke-free for a couple semesters.

  I am for and against the ban. I’m for it because smoking triggers my asthma, and it makes it difficult to breathe, not to mention some brands kick up some mad funk, and you can smell it in the hallways. However, I am also against it because the ban is going a bit too far. Your car is YOUR personal property, and you should be allowed to do what you want (within reason) in it.

  I know that a lot of smokers on here are saying that they stay in the designated spots to smoke. Obviously, you are the minority. If ACC and other colleges have to resort to this, then it’s because a majority of people are breaking the rule of smoking in designated areas. Maybe campus security should be involved and start fining people who aren’t in the designated area before instituting a ban altogether?

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  By Kate October 7, 2011 - 1:02 pm

  FINALLY! THANK YOU ACC!! In an article published by the surgeon general it says that “Some 126 million nonsmokers are exposed to secondhand smoke, what U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona repeatedly calls “involuntary smoking” that puts people at increased risk of death from lung cancer, heart disease and other illnesses. Check the link below:

  http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4188/is_20060627/ai_n16502041/,

  now I will be able to walk outside and BREATHE!

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  By Eric October 7, 2011 - 1:22 pm

  We’re certainly on the bandwagon and unfortunately cannot seem to think for ourselves. While Statisim of all types worldwide is on the decline we continue to remain on the cutting edge of its failure. Logically you may think an educational institution would be independent enough to see the folly and trendiness in this type of pop-culture dictate. The use of force, and the ease to which we turn to force in this type of situation, is far too prevalent in our society today. Employing non aggression principals here would do far more good than the dictates ACC has chosen to prescribe. I’m sure it was an easy decision and they will certainly be welcomed and supported in joining the collective club. Make no mistake! Continuing to relentlessly turn to force to control and manipulate individuals (which is all that there is) will backfire. This is the case today. It won’t be for any one issue but for the collective weight of this type of cultural disregard for the dignity of our most precious minority… the individual.

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  By virgilio October 7, 2011 - 1:41 pm

  FINALLY!!!

  People that smoke do not care about others who do not smoke. I go to acc rio grande and north ridge, and you can not even breathe when you have to walk along the buildings outside because it is just a cloud of smoke all over with too many people smoking. It was time for this to happen. Sorry smokers, its time to quit.

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  By Laura October 7, 2011 - 1:45 pm

  I totally agree with Laura, it *is* sad when restrictions are replacing freedoms.

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  By PB October 7, 2011 - 1:59 pm

  I think people forget that the freedom to breathe freely is above the freedom to pollute the air with smoke. I understand too that it is hard to quit and there are those who don’t want to. That is fine, however when your habit causes me to have an asthma attack or limits and even excludes my movements around the campus, then it is no longer a free country. It is similar to someone who says, hey it’s not a free country because I can’t walk down the street and hit people. And then saying those who want to not be hit are the bad guys. It’s just dumb to think the people that are hurting others with their habits should have the right to do so and those choking on the fumes should just live with it. Try, for two seconds, to think how you would feel if your lungs closed up and your sinuses swelled up because you had to go outside to get to class. Wait until it is your child that has asthma…will you continue to smoke around that kid? Sadly, I watched a women do just that as she told me the kid had to be on breathing treatments due to asthma. Boggles my mind.

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  By Michael October 7, 2011 - 2:57 pm

  I guess I don’t understand how people cant breath if I’am smoking out side (in atmosphere) when smoke is lighter than air so it rises. I don’t think its right to tell someone who has been smoking for years upon years ” If you want to further your education you have to give up the right to make decisions for your self.”

  How is it people can try to tell people that “I know whats best for you, so matter if you want to quit or not we are going to make it possible for you by making impossible for you to make that choice.”

  I never seen anyone chasing a man or women in the parking lot, trying to blow smoke in there face, So if you are out side and sitting next to someone smoking and you got a problem with it, scoot your ass over a few scoots! Problem resolved!!

  Everyone Praises stuff like this untill something they feel is there right gets “Revoked” then they want to try and complain about it but not think of people they have helped to revoke others rights and wants away.

  I don’t know one smoker that picked up the habit of smoking to hurt other people, they do it cause they enjoy it and it was done out of CHOICE , key word here is choice, so who gives someone the right to take others choices away?

  I guess my thing is, this action is the action of Freedom!

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  By Michael October 7, 2011 - 3:11 pm

  I don’t think it makes any sense to tell someone that has been smoking many of years that they have no say or choice in the matter, that everyone else knows whats best for him or her and the best is just to stop or don’t go school. I read all these comments talking about people and smelling smoke while sitting down, well once again that’s your choice to have sat there or continue sitting there, all you have to do is MOVE OVER a little.

  You are out side and smoke is lighter than air so it will rise.

  Its enough that we have to miss out on class to go out side to smoke when we feel we need a ciggerate now we have to walk clear off campus, How is that fair or right? Then not even give us a chance or opportunity to vote on it. I would like to see that on something they enjoy.

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  By c October 7, 2011 - 3:34 pm

  smokers need to acknowledge and respect the fact that non smokers cannot breathe around cigarettes. face the facts! it says no smoking within fifteen feet of the building for a reason and thats becuase of the dangers and harmful chemicals of cigarette smoke. non smokers shouldnt have to move for the sake of smokers. if you want to smoke, you move away so that we non smokers can enjoy the fresh air because it is a big deal and thank you acc for making this change because it really does matter

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  By c October 7, 2011 - 3:55 pm

  I AM SO HAPPY AND LOOKING FORWARD TO GOING TO SCHOOL WITHOUT HAVING TO BREATHE CIGARETTE SMoke. it is really painful, anoyying, aggravating and irrititating and insulting and uncomfortable when walking by it or not being able to sit outside whenever or whereever i want becausepeople smoke out there. smokers want to smoke which means ” engaging in the harmful dangers of cigarette smoke” thats your choice so you can go somewhere else and do that so nonsmokers dont have to suffer from your “rights” because we have a right to breathe fresh air wheneverand wherever we want. Thank you a whole bunch acc!

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  By c October 7, 2011 - 4:01 pm

  People who are inconsiderate and insensitive and ignorant to non smokers are an example of whats wrong with the world. People dont care if what they are doing is wrong and hurting people as long as they get to do it they think its their right to do it and non smokers have to get up and leave. I dont think smoking is a right, its a mistake and it should be illegal. Breathing fresh air is a right, more of a right than the “right” to smoke ever will be becuase smoking isnt right, its wrong. i used to smoke from the age of 11 years old all the way til i was 19. I never understood why my mother couldnt stand it until i quit two years ago and now i understand completly. Smokers need to respect other people around them who cant breathe.

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  By c October 7, 2011 - 4:08 pm

  Just becuase i cant breathe around cigarette smoke doesnt mean that im a wimp. It means that i cannot breathe around the thousands of chemicals that are in cigarette smoke! Is it so hard for smokers to understand that? It hurts to walk by it because it stinks and its harmful to my lungs. THANK YOU ACC!

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  By Diana October 7, 2011 - 4:31 pm

  The good thing about all this is that maybe, just maybe this will help people quit smoking and maybe someday help save their own lives.

  Abstinence might help. Don’t get me wrong I do feel sorry for these people that can no longer smoke, some of them are my friends and co-workers.

  On the flip-side there is always nicorette gum. Right?

  Peace ;.)

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  By Slippery Slope October 7, 2011 - 5:06 pm

  There is not a smoker on campus who doesn’t know the dangers of smoking. We smoke because we like it, or we smoke because we need it, and causing us to take a hike across the street isn’t going to make us quit. It is going to cause many of us to be late for class because some of our campuses are quite large and getting off site and back can take a while. It will cause many students to fidget and clock watch during class, while their bodies go through withdrawals and their minds learn nothing.

  What else will a smoking ban cause? What else will the Board take away from students for their own good? Are vending machines next? The burgers and pizza in Simon’s Cafe? The coffee and blessed energy drinks that keep us from drooling on our desks in our 8am classes? All of these things are dangerous proven to be dangerous to our health, are you coming after them next? Will you fail to ask for student input then too?

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  By Pamela Tajmajer October 7, 2011 - 6:17 pm

  My classes are indoors in different buildings. I have to walk a gauntlet of smokers between each building. I’m a student and I’ve actually talked with campus management about these issues.

  It’s very upsetting that there are signs all over campus on buildings saying that there is no smoking within fifteen feet of the building and there’s an ashtray under the sign, right next to the building.

  Smokers choose to smoke. Breathing is not optional and I choose not to smoke, I don’t think I should have my option of an education removed from me due to an environmental hazard to my health.

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  By Carrie October 7, 2011 - 8:56 pm

  To those that think smokers have a right to smoke… i say, sure, but non-smokers have a right to not smoke ( or smell it). Cigarettes are a documented carcinogen, to the individuals that chose to participate in this deadly act, we that don’t smoke shouldn’t also suffer the consequences of that choice that you have made for yourself. To ACC I commend the choice to make campuses a safer habitat for all.

  P.S. Anthony, just thinking that its ok to carry around a gun in public makes me think that the CHL requirements aren’t sufficient for firearm safety. Try Aikedo if your scared for your life on campus!!!!!

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  By EM October 8, 2011 - 12:31 am

  Great news!

  The angry smokers will get over it. The complaints about their rights and freedom being trampled on are overreactions and demonstrate the same kind of selfishness than makes this ban necessary. A democracy is about balancing the rights of groups of people with conflicting interests. Here we have two groups: One is a group of people who want to smoke and produce chemicals that are harmful to others around them. They want to smoke in public areas and insist that non-smokers go out of their way to avoid the smoke. The other group of people are the non-smokers who want to prohibit others from producing harmful second-hand smoke in public areas they need to walk through. The first group has prevailed for years, but step-by-step this has changed over the past couple of decades. Now smokers are being held accountable for actions that affect others, and they’re upset. In my opinion, their rights are not being impinged upon since their action can be detrimental to those around them. Non-smokers simply want to get to class without dealing with the unhealthy smoke. This should take precedence over catering to a group of people knowingly creating a unhygienic, unhealthy, and dangerous environment (the fire risk alone in this historic drought should be enough the justify the ban).

  Having said that, ACC should have taken the extra effort to include student government in this decision. Ultimately, though, I think the results would have been the same.

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  By Robyn October 8, 2011 - 1:28 am

  Thank you, ACC! As soon as I exit the building for one of my classes, I am blasted by the smell of smoke from the smoking stand which is at least 50 feet from the door. It will be nice not to experience that every day. Also, I don’t think some of you smokers realize how bad you smell when you sit next to me in class after you were just outside smoking, and how distracting that is for us non-smokers. Take advantage of the stop-smoking workshops ACC will offer and use this as incentive to quit. Your fellow students and your loved ones will all be happy that you’ll live longer as a result.

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  By LMB October 8, 2011 - 10:00 am

  Woooo! Hooo! Thank you ACC! For the first time since coming to ACC I will be able to enjoy my lunch or take a break outside. Apparently this is news to the self righteous smokers out there: But every time you light up and exhale, you are violating my right to breath smoke-free air. Perhaps the smokeless cigarette is a good solution for you to indulge your habit without encroaching on my rights. I am delighted that I will no longer be fumigated against my will every time I enter or exit an ACC building.

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  By J October 8, 2011 - 12:02 pm

  Should be illegal for students not to have a say so. Without us there is no ACC this is not highschool everybody that goes to ACC should be adults, smoking is legal so why is ACC making it illegal? Guess nobody believes in the Constitution anymore, apparently nobody has free will. I’m still going to smoke anyways!

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  By Patricia October 8, 2011 - 5:58 pm

  What hypocrisy! In promoting a healthier lifestyle, does ACC intend to eliminate fried foods and carbonated sugary drinks on all campuses as well? I think not. There would be riots. But jumping on the smoke-free bandwagon of hypocrites is easy because smokers, unlike everyone else, apparently do not have the right to put a legal substance into their bodies. Obesity and diabetes just got a free pass yet again, all in the name of “maintaining a healthy and safe environment…”By the way, since there are designated smoking areas in place, so there are no costly facility improvements. ACC arbitrarily decided to implement this policy without so much as a by-your-leave to the students, some of whom are paying for their education out of pocket. Wow,how big-brother is that?

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  By Ezekiel October 8, 2011 - 6:36 pm

  Yeah this will teach um ACC. Wow. I’m a recovering smoker and this is just ridiculous. They have already confined the smoking areas to an almost unrecognizable space, and now this. Its just sad. Protect the faculty and students, its the faculty and students that smoke, people need to stop whining and not sit by the smoking areas. I guess it will be nice not having to want to punch those smokers that throw their butts.

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  By Brig October 8, 2011 - 10:58 pm

  And what will be the consequences of not following the “smoke-free policy”? This will not go over to well, do you know how hard it is for a smoker not to be able to have a cigarette?? No! This is ridiculous, I do not believe I can or will follow this new policy.

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  By Juliet October 9, 2011 - 12:09 am

  What if students are willing to construct their own designated smoking areas with our own supplies, in compliance with all legal mandates, in a location of ACC’s choosing? Doesn’t seem very difficult to me and I know there would be a lot of support for it.

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  By Chrystal October 9, 2011 - 12:10 am

  Very upset! Who gave you the right to make this choice without a students voice or vote?!? I would not mind one bit if you made us smoke 30 feet from the building or in only one place on campus, but this is just un called for! You are going to have some very angry students willing to protest!

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  By Kelly October 9, 2011 - 2:00 am

  This is long overdue. Thank you ACC.

  Reply to students who smoke on the college grounds:

  Every single time I want to study outside and sit on a picnic table, there are at minimum two smokers sitting very close. Simply moving to another table does not cut it when there are different smokers at the new table you just switched to. It’s so hard to escape from smokers since they have a tendency to linger in all areas of the campuses (especially the tables). Having to breathe in smoke is not fair to people who simply want to enjoy the outdoors and fresh air. If one wants to smoke it should not have to be at the expense of others. Once again thank you ACC.

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  By Y October 9, 2011 - 2:58 am

  I’m laughing so hard. Scooting over a few feet does not make the smoke magically disappear. The wind blows in all directions therefore spreading the smoke through the air. “It can also travel about 20 feet in every direction and may stay around for hours.” (breathecalifornia.org). There are many ways to harm people. When you smoke you are physically harming your body and theirs. You have a right to ruin your OWN body, theirs YOU DO NOT. Why should WE have to move just because YOU are the one that is hopelessly addicted?? Don’t worry, food and drinks will always be offered on campus… you know why? Food and liquids are essential factors of living. You know what else is? BREATHING oxygen. Do you know what’s not? Smoking!

  SMOKERS, think of it this way: Think of a smell that REPULSES you. Let’s just say that is the smell of dirty socks. Imagine if you were sitting outside and began to smell dirty socks. Could you study and enjoy the outdoors if that stinky smell was strongly hovering around you and if you moved a few feet away it would still be there? To non-smokers cigarette just plain stinks as much as stinky socks and is also detrimental to one’s health. If you want to do it at your own home go for it.

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  By J October 9, 2011 - 3:06 pm

  It’s as if these smokers don’t realize that they hurt other people with their decision to smoke. Why get angry about it? Sure, people can move away from the smokers if they want to avoid the smoke, but why should they have to move? They aren’t harming anyone’s health by being there; whereas smokers are. Most smokers on campus don’t care about the designated areas, whether it be because of convenience or whatever, they tend to spread out evenly on campus to where there there are few places that are smoke-free. It is understandable that some people smoke for relaxation, but there are far healthier ways to go about it. Try going for a walk instead and, among other things, you’ll notice how nice it is to breath fresh air. How long are most students on campus, anyway? Can you really not afford to lose a few hours of smoking time? Don’t take it so personally, ACC is just trying to remedy a situation that puts many people in danger. Maybe in the end, people will thank ACC because they will live a little longer.

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  By J October 9, 2011 - 3:30 pm

  Again, many of you are taking it the wrong way. As if they are personally attacking you, or your habit. I’m sure ACC couldn’t care less whether you want to smoke or not. Everyone can make their own decisions, but when it’s at the expense of others, how can you justify it?

  Stop saying ignorant things such as “they will take away burgers and vending machines.” That doesn’t make any sense because you are completely missing the point. Like I said, they don’t care that you hurt yourself. They are doing this because it’s irresponsibly hurting others. When you eat fatty foods, you’re not putting the person next to you at a risk of obesity or diabetes. Do you not realize that when you smoke, you breath the toxins right back into the air around you and others? You don’t do that with cholesterol or trans fat, so what exactly is the point you’re trying to make?

  Yes, eating unhealthily can hurt you like smoking can, but it is a choice that you can make that won’t hurt anyone else. So you choose to smoke, good for you, but the people around you who choose not to, what about them? The last thing humanity needs is to be less considerate of each other.

  Besides, like someone stated earlier, there is always alternatives like nicotine gum and electronic cigarettes that won’t harm others.

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  By J October 9, 2011 - 6:33 pm

  The ACC Board of Directors have just VOTED! All Acc students must pay for their own tuition and books and classes will now be $2000.00 a class every student must maintain an A average in every class or risk being dropped from enrollment. ACC will no longer provide Financial Aid for any students because of the economy and there is no room in the budget to provide further assitance with students education!………………………………………………………………….. Did this get anybody’s attention for smoker’s and non-smoker’s this mandated school policy is not fair! To take something away that’s not illegal is not right! Yes there are signs that say no smoking within 15 feet of the building but some people do not follow the rules? Who’s fault is that? I do believe there is security at every campus and if security wasn’t so worried about parking tickets maybe they could do some enforcing on the smoking signs! But to take away the right of someone to smoke outside… Well that is down right illegal to me. I could understand in the building then yes that would not be right to the non-smoker’s but outside come onnnnnn! Cigarette smoke dissapates after three feet, outside!

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  By Nate October 9, 2011 - 6:52 pm

  I think this is a good step. I hate going to class and breathing in all the smoke and second-hand smoking from those even who smoke at a distance. Although it is unfair for those who do want their right to smoke, they have to keep in mind it also hurts those who do not smoke or those who are trying to get away from this addiction.

  They should do their rights without hurting anyone else’s health. Even in ACC’s smoking conditions, I still run into other people who smoke AWFULLY close to the doors needed to walk in and out of. I can’t even walk to class at times without breathing normally, cause I have to hold my breath. I get choked by the smell of it.

  And I want no part in damaging my health because someone chooses to damage their own. I fully support this new cause.

  Now, reading other people’s opinions here, I can understand their views.

  Although I don’t think loving the same gender is crazy, I also do think smoking very far away from building, such as in one’s car, should be allowed and make more flexible. But oh, hypocrisy has it’s ways.

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  By Chrys October 9, 2011 - 9:45 pm

  this is so stupid! you already built a “designated smoking area” for us smokers. And personally i really appreciate it. I’ve met a lot of people i would have never bothered to meet during class. It was civil for school to put these around the school, but for you to take it down is ridiculous and for me and a lot of people I’ve meet, personal. We are already away from people that do not smoke.If there is a way to get a petition going, or something to stop this policy, i’m in.

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  By Action Jackson October 9, 2011 - 10:07 pm

  Thank you ACC!! Now everyone can enjoy being out doors! I applaude you with this decision!

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  By just a thought October 10, 2011 - 9:34 am

  GREAT. OK, so now lets continue the crusade for clean air and support new measures for NOT USING CARS that burn dangerous substances into the air the WE breath, both smokers and non-smokers, and let’s not forget those other people that also belong to the world that do not use cars, that are breathing OUR car smoke.

  Those of you that are so concerned about the air that you breath perhaps should think twice when you go into the street. Is the air outdoors more pure? really?

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  By Emily October 10, 2011 - 10:35 am

  I am a non-smoker, yet this act seems to be a little extreme. Smokers have NON SMOKING areas, they’re isolated enough. If you don’t like the cigarette smoke or smell, walk away! And if you’re sitting at a bench outside where a smoker is able to plop next to you and light up, GET OUT OF THE SMOKING AREA. Some students use smoking as a stress mechanism. They should be able to have a safe place to unwind after an overbearing class (without having to worry about leaving campus and being late to their next class); after all, students are usually always stressed.

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  By adam gaubert October 10, 2011 - 10:37 am

  The campus police who will have to enforce the new rule next spring semester have a thankless job busting smokers.

  I agree that breathing fresh air is everyone’s right and that smokers can still smoke in their own homes or cars.

  have smokers tried those smokeless pipes that can be used in class using a liquid based form of nicotine? i have a school mate who tokes from his every 20 minutes.

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  By Cid October 10, 2011 - 12:06 pm

  Expect a few things with these new regulations:

  1. Half or more of the student body smoking across the street from campus 2. Angry acc employees and students

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  By Ted Nugget October 10, 2011 - 12:54 pm

  Why are people complaining about second hand smoke OUTSIDE?! Are you dumb? I guess that’s what I would expect students to say when they go to a community college.

  Man up and deal with it, I have to deal with ugly people when I go to school. Should we ban them? It’s rather offensive to me when I just want to look at pretty stuff with my eyes!

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  By AE October 10, 2011 - 12:55 pm

  I think that this decision is unwarranted. I am a smoker who is trying to cut back, and I tend to smoke between classes or when I’m bored and have time to kill. I have noticed, particularly at RGC, that people smoke all over the campus, and that yes, it’s true – though all smokers certainly know that it smells awful, they do not always realize the extent of it because they are accustomed to it. What upsets me about this is the process that ACC has taken – why not “crack down” on adherence to designated smoking areas? Why not move them and reduce the area? Really, there could have been a campaign to raise awareness and advocate the rights of BOTH sides of the argument, rather than resorting to outlawing one side. BTW, the smoking sections seem to work just fine at Pinnacle, where you can smoke on one side of the building and not on the other. The student body should have had a say in this.

  The bottom line is that smoking is legal, and this rule does not change that. Students will locate other areas just off campus and will smoke there instead. And the excuse that there is no funding to create designated smoking areas (that already exist?) is just silly.

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  By Sad Smoker October 10, 2011 - 1:05 pm

  We do pay tuition…right? So why was this not addressed to the students? I pay taxes that help pay for these campuses. So who gives the Board the right to tell me when and where I can smoke.

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  By Rachel October 10, 2011 - 1:57 pm

  Thank you ACC! Now the majority of the student population can also enjoy sitting outside. I look forward to doing my homework in the fresh air!

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  By ACC RVS Employee October 10, 2011 - 2:05 pm

  Should non-smokers (like me) be subjected to smoke? Of course not, but smokers shouldn’t be subjected to a lack accomodations either. Why they aren’t designating a smoking section much further from campus buildings is beyond me. At my old employer the smoking section was in a corner of the parking garage, and it worked out beautifully. All this will do is concentrate the smoke in the parking lot or on corners opposite the campus, because unless they find a way to take limit a person’s ability to smoke while in their vehicle, that’s where all the smokers will go. The mention that it would be too difficult to make smoking sections and would require expensive facility changes is absurd – no one is asking for a smoking room like in some of the airports to be constructed.

  From the sounds of the policy this was more of a resolution on where ACC stands on the issue, and even then it’s ridiculous – when was the last time any of us saw cigarette advertising on campus? And the fact that they haven’t fleshed out enforcement and punishment details yet indicates just how much they have to contend with in terms of other laws, mandates, etc. I’m curious to see how this will work at Riverside because of the proximity of the golf course – plenty of golfers can be seen puffing away and they’re not students so they will definitely balk at being told they can’t light up outside the pro shop.

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  By Sahar October 10, 2011 - 2:53 pm

  I always thought that Texas, politically speaking, opposed encroaching on the individual rights of people.

  If there is one thing that history should have taught us better, it is that prohibition does not work; all it does is punish and criminalize legal behavior. Like it or not, cigarettes are legal (only for adults of course), and ACC students will more than likely resist this new policy.

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  By Joe Camel's lung tumor October 10, 2011 - 3:01 pm

  Nobody is saying you cant smoke, they are just saying you cant do it on campus. I applaud ACC’s decision.

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  By Daniel J. C. October 10, 2011 - 3:05 pm

  I was pleasantly surprised to see this announcement.

  For a long time, I have fervently supported anti-smoking campaigns.

  As someone who is extra-sensitive to smoke, the offensive and unhealthy clouds produced by the disgusting habit bother me more than most.

  Furthermore, I firmly believe the self-induced tooth decay, infections, and burning paper sticking out of mouths are extremely stupid and, well, un-attractive.

  To those who argue the restrictions impinge on their rights, I suggest you stay in your car or take your burning trash across the street so your stink does not physically violate my person.

  Since many people have voiced objections, I want to make them aware that the administration is taking this action only after countless complaints and multiple hearings at many levels.

  Additionally, the Trustees were publicly elected by the voting population of the College District.

  If everyone who wanted to smoke was respectful and did so only in non-traffic areas, the ban might not have been necessary.

  However, without a complete exclusion, keeping it within DSA’s was unenforceable as a civil offense.

  Campus police are not going to waste resources to stop people with fake electric devices or smoking in their cars.

  Unless somebody specifically complains, ACC-PD will only issue a citation if you attract negative attention to yourself.

  Under the new rule though, refusal to minimally comply with the policy could be escalated to expulsion or arrest for criminal trespass.

  That would really come from insubordination toward the campus deans who want to work with you, and you could appeal at a disciplinary hearing.

  The tobacco residual carried on clothes or in a car can induce gagging and nausea a couple meters away.

  In classes, I have had to move to the far side of the room to breathe freely when people came back from their cigarette breaks and take the spot right next to me.

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  By Chrissie LeBlanc October 10, 2011 - 4:10 pm

  This isn’t fair. If you don’t like smokers, DON’T SIT BY THEM. Smoke dissipates; it’s not like if there’s a smoke 100 yards away you’re gonna choke or get secondhand smoke. That’s not how it works. How hard is it to put up a few ashtrays? they’re already on campuses; just MOVE them over. Smoking is therapeutic for some people, it relieves stress. And so does fast food and food from vending machines. That’s unhealthy for you and makes a room smell bad, you’re also not allowed to have it in the classroom, are you gonna get rid of those too? Oh wait, the school gets money for that so obesity isn’t one of their concerns. Hmmm. This is ridiculous.

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  By c October 10, 2011 - 6:46 pm

  lame

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  By Brian October 10, 2011 - 8:24 pm

  I don’t smoke, but this is just another right that is being taken away…and it’s disturbing to me. I could rant about “who are they to tell us what we can put into our bodies…”, but it is probably a result of the lowest 1% of smokers who, unfortunately, haven’t had any courtesy or respect for other people, and now ALL smokers are being punished.

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  By I live here October 10, 2011 - 9:07 pm

  I personally think this is an over-dramatic reaction to feelings shared by students(and fac/staff) that feel the same way as Thanh Nguyen. I do not know the specific events leading up to this decision, but I do know that students like Thanh would not feel that way if the regulations that are currently in place were properly enforced.

  I challenge a single person to walk around any given campus and NOT see someone smoking outside a designated smoking area. Students like Thanh would not feel the way they do if campus police and staff/faculty were to take the proper steps to enforce the current regulations. I attend 3-4 courses per semester as well as working as a lab tech. I spend upward of 60 hours a week (mon-thurs) at Round Rock, and I can tell you that I personally tell between 3 and 5 students (and occasionally fac/staff) that they are smoking in an unauthorized area and point them out to the nearest approved smoking area.

  And lets not even get started on the trash factor. How hard is it to properly dispose of a cigarette when you are walking from your car to class? Now how hard is it to properly dispose of a cigarette when you are standing in the designated smoking area with an appropriate container less than 5 feet away? Apparently these are equally difficult and daunting tasks.

  I think there is much work to be done to reach a happy medium in this situation. I also think that this drastic and nearly unenforceable move to ban smoking all together will not work.

  I for one can tell you that there will be (probably not significant but) noticeable enrollment drops, as well as a drastic change in employee and student morale.

  Scenario #1: Students/staff/faculty alike, drive off campus for a cigarette between classes/on breaks. I’m sure that’s a little more damaging environmentally than allowing regulated (and enforced) smoking locations on campus.

  Scenario #2, the parking gets better?

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  By This just in October 10, 2011 - 9:18 pm

  Effective Jan. 2, 2012

  No driving on campus. All vehicles must be turned off upon entering the parking lot. You are welcome to push your non-running vehicle to a parking spot, but the emissions from a running motor are a huge health hazard that is no longer welcome on an ACC campus.

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  By Tim October 11, 2011 - 5:04 am

  Really?

  I understand that I am an easy target, as a smoker, and do what I can to respect non-smokers clean air rights. I stay within the confined smoking areas and do not litter the grounds with my tobacco products. I cannot hide my addiction from plain sight and do not plan to.

  If ACC commits to a safe and healthy environment for faculty and students, then they need to do it across the board and not just point fingers at a minority.

  1. Perfumes and colognes can contain benzene derivatives, mostly from petroleum. These toxins are capable of causing cancer, birth defects, CNS disorder, and asthmatic reactions. (Ban Them)

  2. Snack machines with processed food. High contents of sodium, trans fat, and artificial sweeteners. They can cause high blood pressure, heart disease, LDL cholesterol and obesity. (Ban Them)

  3. Vehicle emissions. How many of you drive a car? You introduce Hydrocarbons, Carbon Dioxide and Carbon Monoxide into the environment. These can cause irritation to the lungs and eyes. These pollutants have been linked to a percentage of lung cancer. (Use public transportation, walk, or ride a bike)

  It’s so easy to jump on the non-smoking bandwagon, and I will adhere to your policies. But, it will not stop me from smoking. ACC will just push me to the surrounding barricades to enjoy a cigarette. Thanks for the education. I will be glad when I graduate.

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  By Judy Green October 11, 2011 - 10:45 am

  At Last! Maybe now we can use the tables provided outside at campuses for lunch and breaks. If you are allergic to smoke it is a major problem no matter where you are on campus.

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  By just a thought October 11, 2011 - 12:49 pm

  Since I am allergic to smoke (that is cigarette smoke), it makes perfect sense I could be allergic to other kinds of smoke (that I can’t see) and air pollutants coming from cars, off-gassing from glues, plastics, treated wood, etc. not to mention natural allergens. So I’m going to be more open to the idea that cigarette smoke is only a small portion of the factors I have to weigh in if I want to engage in conversation about “fairness” “rights” and “wrongs”, otherwise I think for my own safety, and survival, I should remain inside of buildings and perhaps consider wearing a breathing mask. Since the avian flu season is just around the corner I think I will kill two birds with one stone and please don’t judge me for killing birds I just meant that figuratively.

  Puff ….. the magic dragon

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  By kats October 11, 2011 - 2:00 pm

  nice! to all the smokers, there ARE designated places to smoke but everyone STILL gathers around the doors to smoke. If YOU don’t, good for you. Tell others not to. Obviously no tolerance is the way to go since walking 15 feet to light up is too much to expect.

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  By Catherine October 11, 2011 - 2:52 pm

  Thank You sooooo much!!!!! I have a very hard time breathing due to a lung disorder and smoke makes me very short of breath, especially when I’m already walking between classes. It means alot to me to have a smoke free campus but I wouldn’t care if people wanted to smoke in unused areas such as the outer parking lots and behind buildings.

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  By Emily October 11, 2011 - 9:47 pm

  I am opposed to this regulation. The fact that this is based on the idea that designating smoking areas would be too expensive is lost on me. I find it hard to believe that posting several signs on the campuses would really break the bank, ACC. It is not necessary to have covered benches like they do on the Round Rock campus. I am sure there is a cost efficient way to please both non smokers as well as smokers.

  I also agree with an above poster who stated that there did not seem to be much discussion with the students about this issue. And yes, the college is supported primarily through state taxes (cigarette sales) and student tuition. In this case, ACC, you have isolated your top giving students.

  I understand the concept of a healthy environment, but there should be a balance. By doing away with it completely instead of finding low budget alternatives that fits everyone’s lifestyle, especially without consulting the very people this will effect, you are alienating a large part of students who pay high taxes and tuition costs to support you.

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  By Kat October 11, 2011 - 10:46 pm

  I completely disagree with this. Who gave ACC the right to take away my smoking privileges? I didn’t. If I want to smoke, I should be able to. For those who don’t like the smoke; there ARE non-smoking areas for a reason. You can always get up and move or ask the person whos smoking if they can move. I do not remember getting to vote on this.

• 

  By Another perspective October 12, 2011 - 4:04 am

  So I lived near a hospital and the hospital went smoke free. Guess what? There was the bus stop near our house; this became the smoking spot with ciggie butts left all around. The hospital was nice enough to put in a large outside butt receptacle after we called them. The ciggarette smokers then used the receptacle and our neighrborhood was butt free:) So you should consider the effect to ACC’s neighbors and make butt receptacles available. Be nice to the ACC neighbors. Thank you.

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  By Sal October 12, 2011 - 9:29 am

  I do understand how the smokers may feel like this is unfair, however it is also unfair to the non-smokers when people smoke around them. It is completely up to the business (or in this case ACC) to determine their own restrictions on smoking (although, all rules must abide by local, state, and national laws of course). If you do not like this decision I encourage that a petition be started so that the opposing opinion may be heard.

  I believe it is my right as a citizen and a human being to be able to breathe clean air if I so choose.

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  By N/a October 12, 2011 - 11:01 am

  thx you acc i need to breathe !!

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  By Margaret October 12, 2011 - 12:02 pm

  Thank you! Thank you! Thank You, ACC! This is WONDERFUL NEWS. Finally!!!

  Any chance we can now get some benches outside so we can enjoy the beautiful nature that’s been given to us?

  .

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  By Happy October 12, 2011 - 12:17 pm

  WOW! Give the non-smokers a mask when coming to class.Or move all the smokers to one campus.Is this an Austin thing? “KEEP ACC SMOKING”.

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  By RSM October 12, 2011 - 1:00 pm

  Anthony, if the Vets continue smoking, they will not have a mind to clear. So you Know, Smoking Will Render a very slow and painful death. Motor cycle riders are not addicted to no wearing helmets, so that is a very poor and weak comparison. Smoking Cigarettes Will Kill You and those around you it is a know F A C T!!!Slowly!

  Way to Go ACC, I am glad you listened to the voice of reason. I am one of those students who voiced distaste for smoking outside the classrooms, as it left no place for some of us to sit and enjoy the sunshine. Now smokers stop complaining and find another more healthful pass time. It is for your all good anyway, just look at the positive that will come out of this attend the lectures being offered and save your teeth and other organs which will start to function efficiently the minute you stop smoking, your toe nails will get back their natural pinkishm color the very next day..try it 🙂 PEACE!

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  By zestyRed October 12, 2011 - 1:12 pm

  I look at some of the people complaining so forcefully, and if you attempted quitting a nasty bad habit as hard as you complain, you too could be healthier too. I understand how hard it is to sustain from smoking. For a now non-smoker, it IS difficult to walk through areas that are supposed to be outside for all to enjoy. I can’t sit at a table outside, because there are smokers all around. My choices are limited outside to sit and study, because most people around me are smoking. I’m now allergic to smoke – because of the amount I’ve inhaled via secondhand. It’s not just ACC, but other universities and colleges around the nation. Why not try for healthier living, while you massage your mind? It might work. You never know unless you try something different.

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  By L. D. October 12, 2011 - 4:55 pm

  I think it is nonsense. If you dont like the cig. smoke, move around. There is plenty of room. I wonder what habits non smokers have, and if they would like to be told they can not do something they enjoy. I think not. you dont like it move away from it.

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  By J October 12, 2011 - 5:53 pm

  Yes, I do have to walk between buildings to get to my classes, and yes, your right to smoke infringes on MY right to clean air. Smoking has been linked to dozens of health related problems. Educated people KNOW that–so, start acting like the intelligent college student you profess to be and get real!–smoking will KILL you–and before that it will make you a hacking maniac, whose voice sounds horrible, and make you SMELL like a sewer! Get real smokers! Make the intelligent choice–stop being controlled by the nicotine-addicted monster inside of you! Employees of ACC have to pay extra for healthcare(as it should be) if they are smokers—everyone NEEDS to be encouraged to quit–it’s killing you and robbing our healthcare system..just like obesity! I am hoping next will come that fat people have to pay extra taxes! Get healthy America! Come on, show a little self discipline!

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  By Brian October 12, 2011 - 8:23 pm

  people pay money to go here, this is taking basic rights of adults who go here. This is ACC for crying out loud, not some freaking high school.

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  By Angela M October 12, 2011 - 9:53 pm

  Really! You have already regulated us to a corner in each campus. What makes you God? How are you going to enforce this? Have you talked to the business’s or private property owners near each campus? Are they ready to take on the influx of ALL the smokers that will be standing on their property-throwing butts onto their lawns? Have you thought about the liability that ACC will have as a result? You the board are not sitting at campus all day – so it seems reasonable that you would not be affected by your decisions. Each semester, I the student, have found myself to be regulated to the corner and to pay your salary only to find that overall you do not care about us at all. This system really sucks. Don’t forget to tell the students that – their tuition has gone up (mainly for science students – +50 unknown cost per lab), that you will no longer be supporting weekend tutoring except at one campus, and you have taken the only corner left to smokers. Yeah ACC!

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  By A October 12, 2011 - 11:00 pm

  I am a smoker and fine you wanna take away my rights to relax and smoke, whatever!! But I was just thinking about what offends me and was wondering if we can do something about it…..I do NOT like to look at ugly people, so can we ban them from walking past me while I go to my classes? It just makes me sick to see ugly people while I am trying to go to school. Also I dont like people that dont bathe, so can we ban them too, and how about stupid people can they be banned also. I just think my education would be better if people just like me went to school!!!!! Hmmm sounds wrong doesnt it!!!!!?????!!!!

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  By Ashley Hestand October 12, 2011 - 11:18 pm

  I am a non-smoker but this seems a bit ridiculous. I don’t understand why smokers can’t just stay like 6ft away from the building or something. As long as students aren’t forced to walk through it to enter/exit the building I don’t really understand the problem.

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  By just a thought October 12, 2011 - 11:28 pm

  STOP THE BICKERING PEOPLE!

  If the bottom line is to breath clean air you better get out your cleaners and start cleaning it!

  Start with the more polluting gases and smokes there are. You know which they are, because we all produce them when we drive and consume products. If you really care, start with this measure FIRST. You will be doing something meaningful for the world, which includes you, and not the other way around.

  I am happy that you are so happy that you will be able to finally breath. Maybe you should also get a life that goes a little farther than your nose.

  Be real!…… You wish it would be that simple … to be able to finally “enjoy” the fresh air and the outdoors ……… if only that annoying cigarette smoke would vanish! wishful thinking … take a long drag.

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  By RIA October 13, 2011 - 9:15 am

  I’m finding it hard to understand how people figure that this is unfair when it sounds like you can’t even smoke in or at a lot of the places in Austin anyway!?!? Besides, people should really start to reconsider kicking the habit especially after the CNBC documentary- I kept waiting for them to elaborate on whether it was human or animal “feces” they’re putting in cigarrettes??? ….Anyway at least I can go to class without smelling that mess!!! Thanks a million ACC!!!

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  By Matt October 13, 2011 - 12:54 pm

  We must end Caffeine use as well!! These energy drinks and caffeinated beverages are being sold on campus and shortening the lives of students and faculty. I just think is so terrible to see all these young students who just don’t know better, and need others to make safe and healthy decisions for them.

  Give me a break. I’m not even a smoker but people should be able to smoke OUTSIDE…

  We need to ban all hydrocarbon burning vehicles from school campuses too!! I ride a bicycle and I just HATE having to BREATHE all the NOXIOUS, POISONOUS, LIFE SHORTENING chemicals that come out of these DISGUSTING people’s cars!!! BICYCLES AND PEDESTRIANS ONLY ON ACC CAMPUSES.

  HELP

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  By just a thought October 13, 2011 - 2:27 pm

  Matt, thanks for your post!

  I think you are right. Let’s stop the hypocrisy and instead go all the way defending “your right” to clean air in a way that REALLY matters:

  BICYCLES AND PEDESTRIANS ONLY ON ACC CAMPUSES.

  and let’s add another simple and tolerant measure …. farting allowed only 50 feet away from ACC buildings. That should take care of it!

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  By Amanda October 13, 2011 - 4:52 pm

  ACC isn’t going to smell better because people aren’t smoking on campus.

  Imagine how great the person is going to smell after sitting in a closed car smoking.

  A business should be able to determine how they operate. But I’d like to consider myself a student at ACC and not a customer.

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  By Paige October 13, 2011 - 8:00 pm

  Awesome!!!! No more will I have to inhale second hand smoke or watch people trash our planet with their cigarette butts. Yay!

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  By J October 13, 2011 - 10:51 pm

  Yeah, well… make a smoking campus 😛

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  By Me123 October 14, 2011 - 12:18 am

  Just a couple random thoughts…….If people are going to make this about what a cigarette harmfully does to a body and the annoyance of smelling or watching a person engage in the act I feel I have something to talk about…. First of all, I can’t stand the sight of watching overweight people drink a soda, munch on a candy bar, use the elevator, etc. These actions CAUSE HARM to a humans body, but ACC doesn’t mind throwing in a few vending machines to allow these bad habits to take place.I am IRRITATED by the INCONSIDERATE students that speed through the parking lot at 50 mph putting others lives in danger, but I haven’t heard of any person raising hell about that either. I’m not even a smoker, but this whole thing bothers me. That cigarette that is much needed before a test, or that cigarette needed after lecturing a few classes is going to turn quite a few people into angry and irritable monsters. Sounds like a GREAT plan. Love how easy it is for non-smokers to make this decision.

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  By Paul October 14, 2011 - 7:17 am

  With the rising cost of health care and the known health risks associated with cigarette smoking I feel this is a great move by the ACC board of Trustees. Yes it is an adults right to smoke if they so choose just as it is an adults right to gamble or drink alcohol both of which are not allowed on ACC property either. Perhaps this new policy will help many smokers put forth a concerted effort to try smoking cessation.

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  By Teena October 14, 2011 - 8:50 am

  Kudos to you ACC! I work for Dell and this was implemented a long time ago.

  Yesterday I was walking into the building and someone was smoking right next to the sign that said “No smoking within 15 feet of this building.” Clearly people do not abide by these rules, and I was assaulted with a ton of smoke.

  I applaud ACC for making the decision!

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  By Brandon October 14, 2011 - 10:16 am

  People are going to smoke anyways. I’d love to see a campus officer try to do ANYTHING about it. I’ll just walk away. They literally cannot do ANYTHING.

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  By RIA October 14, 2011 - 11:51 am

  If you can quickly run into any one of the campuses w/o a parking permit and comes out with a fine…I’m pretty sure that they will find some way to make people pay. Especially if it means extra funds for the school!!

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  By da October 14, 2011 - 12:28 pm

  Terry,

  The difference is if someone is obese, they aren’t forcing you to eat or drink their food or non-diet drinks in order to walk to your class. That’s not really a valid argument, although I would agree IF your smoking affected only you.

  Smokers tend to forget that they are polluting the air, forcing others to breathe their smoke. I have a feeling eventually smoking will be outlawed, so now would be a good time to quit.

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  By ACC Employee October 14, 2011 - 1:33 pm

  As ACC Employees, we were recently made aware that our health insurance premiums will go up in December unless we are not tobacco users. The policy specifically allows for the use of electronic cigarettes as an allowable alternative that does not count as “tobacco use” for the purposes of this policy.

  Will the smoking cessation workshops and literature available for faculty, staff and students include information about this option?

  Will eCigs be allowed for use on campus in support of the policy, since it is the same policy as the rest of the State of Texas employees received? If that decision was made at the State level, it would follow that these devices which have helped so many people quit or cut down drastically (I quit effortlessly in 2009 using one) would be allowed for use on campus.

  In other words, if eCigs are not considered to be tobacco products for the purposes of the tobacco use clause of our insurace, surely they would be legal for use on campuses as they would also not fall under the label of tobacco products with this new smoke-free policy. No smoke, no tobacco.

  Inquiring minds want to know.

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  By Non Smoker October 14, 2011 - 5:49 pm

  Yet another example of government regulating too much. To ban smoking entirely is to infringe upon the students’ rights given to them by being in this so called, “free country” of ours.

  I don’t smoke, have asthma, and I also have never had an issue with not being able to breathe walking to my classes because of cigarette smoke. There are plenty of places to sit outside, and it’s not like there’s a fat cloud of smoke in every corner.

  And what are they going to do if someone is smoking on school grounds? Arrest them? Give them a ticket for something that is completely legal? The designated smoking areas should be put into place and smokers just have to be willing to stay there.

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  By Jennifer October 14, 2011 - 8:33 pm

  I don’t smoke personally but this is crazy! Rights are being taken away. If they were “asking” us to do this, they would not be making a rule about it. More people making rules to try to protect us from ourself. This is not what Texas is all about!

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  By just a thought October 14, 2011 - 9:54 pm

  OK people, clear your thinking! You can not have it both ways!

  If the argument is that cigarette smoke affects the health of “the other” and eating crap (yes, crap in campus) and being obese does not, I think one could agree with that, but then you would have to include EVERYTHING that affects negatively the other, including once again, pollution, burning hydrocarbons, paint vapors, formaldehyde, glues, aerosols, etc. otherwise it looks like you are just picking on those that smoke and you are allowing the same “sin” to be committed by others of your like (including yourself!) so don’t be a hypocrite.

  YOU CAN NOT HAVE IT BOTH WAYS! so just decide which way and stick to it, JUST stick to it and stop the bickering! and be ready to act accordingly because in this case it does not matter what you think …. it is really about how you act now and in the future, when you will really have to worry about what you breath.

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  By GJ October 15, 2011 - 12:14 pm

  The administration at Dallas County Community College attempted to do this same ban but it was met with a movement of students, employees and faculty. The administration had not given the peoople who would be affected by the rule to have any imput. After a hearing,the result was the district established designated smoking areas on the campus.

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  By Terry October 15, 2011 - 6:39 pm

  I have been free of cigarettes for a few months now. I have tried to do so for many years, but have finally gotten to the point that my breathing is so bad that I have to do something. Otherwise, I would still smoke, even knowing that it is bad for me. It has always been my stress relief. I feel that it is totally thoughtless and disrespectful to not provide a place for smokers to smoke if they wish to and or need to. All of us cannot be the perfect non-smokers that many feel we should be. And I would guess that most of those folks have never smoked a cigarette in their live.

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  By Jacqueline G October 16, 2011 - 1:07 pm

  I’m so happy to be coming to a smoke-free campus! I’m an ex-smoker and now that I can smell again, I realize how offensive my second-hand smoke was. This will help a few people realize: they CAN get through a 10 minute break without a cigarette. It’s so much more relaxing to take a few deep breaths of fresh air.

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  By Terry October 16, 2011 - 7:54 pm

  Is anyone else having a problem with clicking on older messages and getting newer one and visa versa. To be honest with you, ACC having a viable IT team is more important than the issue of second hand smoke 50 yards away from the entrance to buildings….

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  By Isobelle magson October 16, 2011 - 9:56 pm

  Unless you are sitting 2 inches from the smoke coming from a cigarette and inhaling real good, there is no chance of any adverse effects. Just walking past a smoking zone will not give you cancer, so chill out and don’t be so stupid!~

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  By where are my rights???? October 16, 2011 - 11:07 pm

  Im still gonna smoke. this is a violation of my fundamental rights as an american citizen. To the people who are praising this: you do not know how hard it is to quit smoking and go a few hours with out a cigarette. i find it deeply offensive.its like outlawing cheeseburgers. I always smoke in the designated smoking areas. I usually smoke before a test as a way to relax and clear my mind. Now what will i do? i guess ill just fail my test. thanks acc! if i wanted to make myself healthier and quit smoking i would, because it is MY choice not anyone elses.

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  By Billy October 17, 2011 - 4:48 am

  I have smoked since I was 12. I am now 45. I have been inhaling cigarette smoke straight from a cigarette for 33 Years. I am in as good of health as the average person my age and better than many others, especially many of the the obese.

  If you breath car exhaust straight from a car, you will be dead within an hour. Cars contribute to global warming and are destroying our environment. Car accidents are directly responsible for tens of thousands of deaths annually.

  Why is nobody talking about banning internal combustion engines? Why not spend this effort making more parking spaces so people dont have to repeatedly circle the parking lots?

  This is simply about being able to say “Woo Hoo, Look at us, we are PROGRESSIVE!”. But when you agree to take away someone elses liberties, you are subjecting yourself to losing your own.

  Here are the REAL facts about health risks.

  http://www.rand.org/pubs/research_briefs/RB4549/index1.html

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  By Edwin October 17, 2011 - 11:46 am

  Ridiculous! How much would it actually cost for smoking areas? How about some actual numbers and actual plans? I’d even start a fundraiser for us to have our areas. ACC should judge us not by the color of our lungs, but by the conduct of our character.

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  By Melissa October 17, 2011 - 12:26 pm

  Thank you! Thank you! and Thank you!

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  By Mitchell October 17, 2011 - 12:29 pm

  While I understand it will be hard for the smokers (mom is a smoker), it will be nice to breathe clean air. Smokers do not realize that their sense of smell gets dull after smoking so long, how strong the smell is and how far it travels. It stays on their clothes & in their hair. You can be within 4 feet of someone that has recently smoked and can still smell it, eventually it may fade some. On a heavy smoker, the smell just flat stays with them.

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  By Dave October 17, 2011 - 12:29 pm

  it comes down to forcing compliance… really ACC???

  so the solution to the wants of a few is to go ahead and take away the free will of others.?! thanks for nothing ACC, you always know how to give in to the cry babies… what’s next..? piercings and tattoos need to be removed/covered because some 70 year old bible thumping antique doesn’t want to see one of their students devil tattoos??? I find it funny and quite hypocritical how there is a big push for the acceptance of all people and yet they are the first ones to go single out a group just because they don’t like them…

  I think I know a loophole and I will be glad to let everyone who smokes know why it’s a good thing the sidewalks are still a public right of way… smoke there…

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  By just a thought October 17, 2011 - 2:41 pm

  so now we are going to start talking about the way some people smell??????

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  By Ralphie October 17, 2011 - 11:37 pm

  This is bull. This is gonna be fun going across the street and watching the irresponsible smokers throw out their butts in the dry grass field between the Texas State and ACC Round Rock campus. It will happen sooner or later. How hard is it to make a smoking section? Jeez. Put up a sign in a corner somewhere and you’re done.

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  By Leslie October 18, 2011 - 11:48 am

  I think this policy is going to cause problems. What about the students or faculty who smoke and are there all day? Do they have to leave campus? Ridiculous. I bet they won’t make a rule banning coffee. People typically need some kind of substance to keep them going all day, to take that edge off. For some people that is coffee and others it is cigarettes. It’s really not that hard to enjoy your time outside if there is someone smoking.

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  By George October 18, 2011 - 12:49 pm

  Frankly, I’m offended. I don’t recall this ever being a topic for discussion. We are not children in a compulsory system. I am a not a smoker and would like to know why having “non-smoking areas”is not a viable alternative? How do you suggest that smokers go about attempting to defend their rights in this? The student body was never consulted and I find the whole thing appalling. The board knows that the money comes from us, right?

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  By aly October 18, 2011 - 5:05 pm

  Great choice acc!!!! Couldn’t have made a better move.

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  By Z Dizzle "The Truth" October 19, 2011 - 10:07 am

  I don’t get what any of you are complaining about concerning this new Board policy? Last time I checked, ACC Board of Trustees meetings were open to all students, staff, faculty, and the general public (as taxpayers). Some make the choice to use tobacco products while others choose to refrain. There is no legal or constitutional protection (state or federal) that says a business, organization, or in this case a community college district cannot restrict the use of tobacco products on its property. I find it insensitive that tobacco users, especially smokers, complain about having designated smoking areas or are not allowed to smoke in certain places when second-hand smoke has been shown to cause a litany of health problems. If you are a tobacco user and are unhappy about this, I’m sorry… but while you think about your “rights” and own self-interest, please think about how the smoke you exhale and your burning cigarretes affects the public health and the “rights” of the community.

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  By employee October 19, 2011 - 10:22 am

  Great Job. As an adjunct I hated teaching at Rio Grande because the portable adjunct office was situated right in the middle of the smoking area. It was impossible to work there without smeeling like an ashtray at the end of the day. I’m sick of hearing about people’s “right” to smoke. what about my right to clean air?

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  By A Fed Up Smoker October 19, 2011 - 10:23 am

  Nonsense. Harlequin is dead on. ACC could easily find a way to make designated smoking areas with a bucket of paint and a few signs. In fact, the non-smoking signs that are sure to be in every corner of the campus will cost far more. It’s a legal product, for now, and its irrational hysteria to say outside second-hand smoke has anything but a minuscule impact on public health. One gasoline filled leaf blower (look it up, they create a lot of pollution) on campus does more damage than 1,000 smokers and the cars that pollute the air have an infinitely greater impact. This isn’t smart or important public policy, this is mindless, fact-less, knee-jerk, jumping on the bandwagon of the national anti-smoking craze. Here’s to hoping against hope the Board comes to its senses.

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  By Curtis October 19, 2011 - 10:24 am

  EVERY DAY I see smokers lighting up in DESIGNATED NON-SMOKING AREAS. ACC is a PUBLIC school and should be 100% NON-SMOKING for EVERYONE’S HEALTHY and SAFETY. Period. There is no “right” to smoke, so those of you who think ACC is trampling your rights need to get a grip. Smoking is a privilege granted and regulated by the government.

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  By Danielle W October 19, 2011 - 12:26 pm

  Im not an avid smoker- but i would be very upset if i paid the same tuition as someone- yet i dont even have a SMALL place to smoke my cigarette. It’s a right not a privilage.

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  By Grateful Employee October 19, 2011 - 1:38 pm

  To those people who think this is a sudden change, smoking preference surveys were circulated through the employees and student government associations a couple of years ago. The over all response was in favor of a no smoking campus.

  The Environmental Health and Safety Committee initiated a plan to gradually move the college toward this goal. The first step was the ban on smoking in all buildings. Next, designated smoking areas were established on many campuses. The goal for ACC to be a no smoking school will be accomplished with the Board’s action.

  We can look forward to a healthier environment and a cleaner campus. I applaud the Board and the Administration for this action.

  PS: Our campuses will be a lot cleaner without all of the cigarette butts littering the grounds.

• 

  By just a thought October 19, 2011 - 2:33 pm

  to the poster of:

  PS: Our campuses will be a lot cleaner without all of the cigarette butts littering the grounds.

  I would have to add that our campuses need more important “cleaning campaigns” than a cleaning campaign against cigarette butts.

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  By Great Idea October 19, 2011 - 3:41 pm

  I think this is a great idea no I am not a smoker but while attending ACC I happen to become pregnant and during my pregnancy I could not stand the smell of smoke because I would get really nauseated and sick and I didn’t think it was fair that I had to breath in polluted air full of smoke just trying to walk to class just because people want to ruin there lungs go ahead I can care less but I don’t feel like me or my unborn child should have to suffer because others want to smoke

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  By Anne October 19, 2011 - 4:51 pm

  Dr. Kinslow has just barely retired and his policies are already being reversed.

  Dr. Rhodes, I hope you don’t plan on accomplishing much of anything. As soon as you retire, anything you have accomplished will also be undone by our exalted Board of Trustees.

  http://www.theaccent.org/designated-smoking-on-campus-1.1818829

  Published: Friday, December 3, 2010

  “Smokers can expect covered, designated smoking areas to go up on every campus. This decision was reached by the Administrative Service Council (ASC) after a two-year debate.

  In the spring of 2009, the college had voted to work toward making ACC completely smoke free by August of 2011. That language has been removed in the new administrative rule on smoking that President Kinslow passed over the summer.

  According to Ben Ferrell, the executive vice president of finance and administration, the original vote to make the college smoke free didn’t pass by a large majority, and the logistics of a totally smoke free college create a lot of complications.

  ‘This is the compromise between having no policy and being completely smoke free, which is no smoking anywhere on any campus…It’s about our employees as well as students, and they are not pariahs. Besides, if you’re somewhere like the Service Center, what are you supposed to do? Go stand in the road,’ said Ferrell.”

  “Over the summer [2010], President Kinslow signed into effect the Smoke Free Environment Administrative Rule and associated Procedures and Guidelines, which no longer included to sentence about becoming smoke free by 2011. ‘There are no longer any plans for the college to become smoke free. These covered smoking areas are the solution,’ said Ferrell.

  The rule states that all ACC facilities will provide designated smoking and no-smoking areas. These areas will be decided on by the campus managers with input gathered from employees and students.”

  The State of Texas has already declared our private vehicles to be an extension of our homes, via the “Castle Doctrine.”

  I do believe I will sit at “home” and enjoy my tobacco products. Hmm, since I sit out on my porch at home, I believe I should sit on my “porch” whilst at “home,” also.

• 

  By Phillip Morris October 19, 2011 - 8:59 pm

  This is unfair.

  OCCUPY the SMOKING AREA!

  Or better yet, the front yards of Board Members! Not Cool ACC.

  Let’s see about your enforcement. Are you going to club or expel students? Whatcha got!

• 

  By Rick October 19, 2011 - 9:58 pm

  To all you folks who don’t smoke cigarettes. Good for you. Now, let’s make a deal. I won’t try to force you to start smoking cigarettes if you don’t try to force me to stop smoking cigarettes.

  I know, I know, you just can’t stand the smell, (cough, cough). It’s just terrible that you might have to be around someone smoking. You’re allergic, you… well, you just can’t understand why someone would want to smoke.

  I’ll bet I wouldn’t understand some of the things you do either.

  The thing is: all the protests about smokers infringing on your space is nonsense. We’ve been long ago so marginalized that we want nothing to do with you, want to in no way offend. You’ve painted us in a little ghetto. Ok. But now some anti-smoking zealot has decreed we can’t smoke anywhere on campus. No matter how far away. Can it be long before ACC decides I can’t smoke at home, either?

  But, hey, it’s for my own good. Right? If we make it more and more difficult for you to smoke a cigarette, eventually you’ll stop, and it’s for your own good. Right?

  It doesn’t make me want to stop – it just makes me angry.

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  By Happy Student October 20, 2011 - 10:57 am

  Thank goodness! Go somewhere else and smoke that junk.

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  By Robert October 20, 2011 - 12:10 pm

  Is the school going to refund parking permits for those that smoke in their vehicles? This should have been effective in the beginning of the fiscal year so the students/employees have a choice on whether to purchase the parking permit.

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  By just a thought October 20, 2011 - 12:35 pm

  Here is a solution for everyone! – because smoke rises (last time I checked)

  Lets have smoking sections on the roofs of buildings. In three easy steps:

  1.- Create an access to the roof.

  2.- Establish a covered area with trash cans/ashtrays

  3.- Only smokers allowed.

  Call it “smoking on top”

  Enjoy the view, stop the bickering and be happy!

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  By Taylor October 20, 2011 - 3:52 pm

  GOOD! Smoking is nasty anyway.

  I mean really…you stink, you’re wrinkly, your teeth are yellow and you’re probably going broke buying a zillion packs of cigarettes anyway.

  There’s much cooler ways to die. 🙂

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  By just a thought October 20, 2011 - 10:56 pm

  Taylor posted:

  “There’s much cooler ways to die.”

  Really? like what …. in your arms?

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  By Thanks October 21, 2011 - 3:09 pm

  I am really happy about this policy. I just hope it’s enforced because where I work no one enforces the 15 feet from the door policy. What are the consequences if someone doesn’t adhere to the policy? Without enforcement, smokers will continue to smoke outside of buildings.

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  By Harlequin October 24, 2011 - 11:35 pm

  Why are all the positive comments for banning on the front page? For the non-smokers – I am sorry if your campus does not have a smoking section; it is annoying. However, do not believe everything you read – with all due respect the Board of Trustees are not doing this for nonsmokers, nor for student health. When a workplace becomes “Smoke-Free”, they get a chunk off the premium from the insurance company premiums that they pay. It does not benefit the workers, only the bigger people. I have worked in the health insurance industry so I am not ignorant to what is going on. Money talks, doesn’t it? Every school should have a smoking section. I am way too old to be told I cannot smoke in a private section! We are grown adults (at least I am) and I know my rights are being violated – this almost ties in with what is going on with Wall Street. Our schools will not see that money for new desks, or windows that do not fall from the ninth floor. Nonsmokers, you are being fooled.

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  By Anonymous October 26, 2011 - 1:49 pm

  First off, no one is telling these students to quit smoking completely. They can smoke whenever they choose as long as it is off campus. Second, this is a free country, that doesnt mean that you can go around doing what you please does it? ACC can choose which rules they want to implement of THEIR property. If you choose to still fight about it, go to a private school where you have more say so in what they do.

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  By Alexander Watson November 2, 2011 - 10:37 am

  NO, and no. I stand 100% against this policy. It might get a little tobacco smelling outside RVS building G, but seriously people, your outside, not hot boxed in a classroom. This is as offensive to me as the so called “free speech zones” posted around campus. We are all adults here at ACC and it’s time people started acting like it and quit crying to mommy or administration demanding that others make our decisions for us because “they know better”.

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  By Shawn8012 November 6, 2011 - 11:03 am

  It is quite amazing that such a level of ignorance exists among the college population. If any of the non-smoker zealots faculty included had the slightest idea of what they were talking about they would know that cancers and second-hand smoke have no correlation as proven by studies. Any studies done by the EPA were tossed out of court and declare fraudulent after the EPA messed with data knowingly to support the statistics they wanted to support.

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  By Kristin November 15, 2011 - 10:58 am

  Thank you ACC. To the smokers, I get it, you want to smoke and you have the right to. At the same time for those of us with asthma we can finally breathe on campus. When I walk outside there is no “walking around” the smokers, they are everywhere, and the wind practically turns the outdoors in a asthmatic’s worst nightmare, creating a wind tunnel of smoke outdoors. Be angry all you want, but you aren’t just hurting yourself smokers, you’re hurting others. Second hand smoke kills, you aren’t just drinking soda and killing yourself, your putting thousands of chemicals into the air and killing others. ACC made the right decision, smokers can smoke in their cars or away from the school.

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  By just a thought November 15, 2011 - 4:31 pm

  In response to Kristin,

  I am not a smoker but please don’t be so naive to think that your asthma gets ONLY aggravated by the second hand smoke that follows you around the ACC campuses like a curse. Stop for a moment and think about what you are saying and reflect. Think of all the other substances, gases and particles that get tossed into the atmosphere by people like you and I, yes, like you. Every time you drive or use a vehicle of some kind, or any time you turn on a light, etc. you are contributing to your own asthma aggravation and to the shortening of my own life. So what are YOU going to do about it? because every time I breathe, your current transportation and living practices are killing me ….. just a little bit at a time.

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  By Shawn8012 November 17, 2011 - 12:18 pm

  This whole matter is an unfortunate thing, it really is. The smokers are willing to compromise and be moved I’m sure but the non smokers want smoking completely gone for the wrong reasons. This is not the Salem witch hunt people, your persecution of smokers is really ill-informed. Most of you unfortunately have fallen into the follower position and follow fraudulent government and media propaganda while medical companies are making money off the anti smoking movement and smokers. In an effort to lessen ignorance I would suggest checking out smokescam.com