New Anti-Smoking Policy Enforced 5 Mile Radius Around Campus

          Enough is enough. As New York State passed anti-smoking laws in late 2003, the college is finally catching up. In the state of New York smoking is prohibited in the following indoor areas (via nyhealth): 

Places of employment;

Bars;

Enclosed indoor areas open to the public containing a swimming pool;

Public means of mass transportation, including subways;

All public and private colleges, universities and other educational and vocational institutions, including dormitories, residence halls, and other group residential facilities that are owned or operated by such colleges, universities and other educational and vocational institutions;

Zoos; and

Bingo facilities.

           In 2011, New York City passed a smoking ban on many public outdoor areas (via CNN). The college is now following suit, and in Fall 2012 is banning smoking in public areas on campus. The college intends to test the reach of its power by prohibiting smoking anywhere within 5 miles of the campus. The college recognizes that the new policy may restrict certain personal freedoms, but realizes its civil duty is to protect the health and well-being of those in its community. The college hopes that local residents will respect the new anti-smoking policy, complying due to the college's reputation. 

          The policy extends into downtown Poughkeepsie and even over into Highland. Many students are openly opposed to the policy, but the college assures them that it is what's best. Updates to follow.