SMC students adjust to smoking ban
By Katie Miller
News Writer
Saint Mary's smokers have been banished from their dorms this year when they feel the need to light up.
Although the 1999-2000 student handbook "permitted smoking in student rooms [with transoms and door closed], if it is agreed by all roommates" and in vending areas, the 2000-2001 handbook bans smoking indoors.
"We are one of the last institutions to implement this type of smoking policy. So many have gone to nonsmoking elsewhere. Smokers probably thought it was only a matter of time before we altered the policy," said College President Marilou Eldred.
Students were involved in the creation of the new policy.
"The students who chose to get involved with health services last year [when the new smoking policy was being made] helped make the final decision," said Sara Scalzo, director of Le Mans Hall.
Under the old policy, many nonsmokers complained of outside smoke entering their rooms.
"It was hard for nonsmokers when smoke would travel between rooms. I think the new policy is better for everyone," said junior Erin Roberts.
"As a nonsmoker, I am very happy about the new policy. I have terrible allergies, and my breathing suffered from outside smoke entering my room," said junior Kelly Koslow.
Some students see the new policy as a violation of their rights.
"I think it's ridiculous to take away the rights you have as an adult," said junior Carrie Cuellar.
Many students agree smokers should have an indoor place to smoke.
"If you're going to accommodate nonsmokers, smokers should be accommodated as well," said Cuellar.
"I support the policy, but I can understand how smokers are annoyed that they must leave the building in order to smoke," said junior Julia Fletcher.
Both Eldred and Scalzo have found students to be very cooperative with the new policy.
"Every time a student smokes too close to the building, I ask them to move, and they always do," said Scalzo.
Because of the increase in outdoor smoking, there are concerns about the amount of smokers not using the smoking receptacles.
"Saint Mary's is littered with cigarette butts," said Cuellar.
"I really encourage smokers to use receptacles. Debris is not part of the image Saint Mary's wants to present, especially when prospective students are visiting," said Eldred.
All News Stories for Friday, September 15, 2000
