New initiative could save student lives

Smoking-related deaths are preventable. Exposure to secondhand smoke is
associated with heart and lung disease, asthma, allergies and respiratory and ear infections.
State and city regulations protect employees and patrons of restaurants and bars from secondhand smoke. Now, a group of students is proposing a tobacco-free campus to improve health outcomes among students, improve air quality, lessen cigarette litter and gain economic relief in the form of reduced health insurance premiums.
Moscow is a leader in efforts to limit exposure to secondhand smoke and its carcinogens. This student-initiated objective is complementary to existing state and local regulations.
Idaho law prohibits smoking in restaurants. In 2009, Moscow City Council voted unanimously to support local Ordinance 2009-14, which prohibits smoking in bars and private clubs, except in designated areas, and provides for penalties for violation. Persuasive testimony was provided by a representative of the American Heart Association and from Patrick Bradbury, then-senator for ASUI, who read a letter on behalf of President Wilson, Vice President Cochran and the student body supporting the city’s smoking ban. Senator Bradbury surmised that the majority of students were non-smokers who deserved a healthy environment in which to learn, live and recreate.
The decision about whether or not to have a tobacco-free campus will be up to students and the university. An awareness-raising campaign is underway, and a campus-wide survey is planned for the end of the month to measure support among stakeholders.
As a nurse and elected official, I applaud students’ interest in improving health and creating a more desirable learning environment. Now, it’s up to you.
Nancy Chaney is the mayor of Moscow and can be contacted at [email protected]

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