UMD News Releases

University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) Chancellor Kathryn A. Martin has announced the following Campus Smoking Policy effective September 1, 2007.

As of September 1, 2007, smoking will be prohibited on all UMD property. The only exception to the policy is that University housing facilities will not have to be smoke-free until May 19, 2008. This action is in response to recommendations from the UMD Student Health Advisory Committee and the UMD Campus Safety, Health and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Committee.

The smoking ban includes indoor facilities and the campus grounds, as well as all University vehicles. Until the ban takes affect, smoking will continue to be allowed a minimum distance of 25 feet away from any University building entrance, open window, or air supply vent.

We know that this may pose hardship for some individuals who have been long-term smokers. It is our intention to provide as much support as necessary during this transition. A series of smoking cessation programs for students are currently offered through UMD Health Services. Programs for smoking cessation for faculty and staff will be offered this fall through UMD Human Resources and the dates for these programs will be announced later in the summer.

Everyone's cooperation will be needed to assure this is a successful implementation. We are grateful to the UMD Student Health Advisory Committee and the UMD Campus Safety, Health and Emergency Preparedness Advisory Committee for their study of smoking policies and ultimate recommendations.

For a complete policy description please see
http://www.d.umn.edu/umdhr/Policies/smoking.html