Tobacco Use

North County Community College, sponsored by Essex County and Franklin County, is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. The establishment of policies is the responsibility of the North Country Community College Board of Trustees, while the development, modification and implementation of those policies is the responsibility of the College administration. We maintain and affirm that the most equitable and fair policies are those that involve shared governance and shared decision-making, and we are committed to engaging the College community in the development/modification of policy, wherever possible. This policy was originally developed on April 18, 1991 and modified by the NCCC Board of Trustees on April 24th, 2001.

As part of the College’s mission and our desire to most effectively serve our communities, the Board of Trustees adopted this policy for the safety, health and wellness needs of the College Community.

In recognition of its responsibility to maintain a safe and healthy environment for all students, staff and visitors, as well as the health, safety and comfort benefits of a tobacco-free environment, the following on-campus Tobacco Policy is in force on all College property:

• the use of tobacco products by any member of the College Community, including guests in any building owned, operated, or controlled by the College is prohibited, and all such buildings are to be designated tobacco free;
• The use of tobacco products is prohibited within 25 feet of any building owned, operated, or controlled by the College, to include entrances, windows, and ventilation intake systems. Use of tobacco products is permitted only in outside areas completely open to the air. If wayward tobacco smoke intrudes on any interior workspace, smokers will be asked to move;
• The use of tobacco products is prohibited within 50 feet of the designated entrances of any College building. Said entrance will be clearly marked for smoke sensitive individuals;
• For safety and health reasons, tobacco users are required to properly dispose of tobacco waste and debris;
• The Maintenance Department is responsible for posting and maintaining appropriate interior and exterior signage, e.g., "Use of All Tobacco Products Prohibited";
• Questions about this policy and/or resources and referral services for cessation of tobacco usage may be submitted to the Dean of Student Life;
• individuals exposed to second-hand smoke may file complaints with the Dean of Student Life; and
• non-compliance with this policy will be handled in accordance with the provisions set forth in the North Country Community College Code of Conduct -Individual Rights and Responsibilities.