Charlotte County’s Edison State College goes tobacco free
The Charlotte Campus of Edison State College on Wednesday became the first Florida public college or university 100 percent tobacco free.
Charlotte Campus President Patricia Land made it official during a press conference this morning. “Edison State College has always been committed to providing a healthy working and learning environment and transitioning to a 100 percent tobacco-free campus continues that tradition,” Land said. “Our purpose is to reduce the harm from the use of tobacco products and secondhand smoke while further establishing a culture of wellness.
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According to the Florida Legislature more than 78 people die each day from tobacco related illnesses, more than eight of which are nonsmokers, press release from the college said. The Legislature also estimates that Florida bears more than $700 million of the annual healthcare costs attributable to smoking.
Edison State’s tobacco-free initiative applies to all students, staff, faculty, contractors, vendors and visitors. The policy applies to the entire Charlotte Campus – indoor facilities, campus grounds, walkways and parking lots. Tobacco use will only be permitted in personal vehicles, as long as all tobacco materials and smoke are contained within.
Cessation programs will be available for all Edison State students, faculty and staff who wish to quit using tobacco products.
