Resources
Tobacco-free environment
June 14, 2012
Free signs, banners for districts with updated tobacco-free policies.
Districts that adopted Tobacco-Free Environment Policies qualify to receive five high-quality painted metal “Tobacco-Free Zone” signs. If your district has adopted a policy that goes beyond the state standard (OAR 581-021-0110) you may also receive an attractive vinyl banner announcing your commitment to providing a tobacco-free environment. If you haven't received your sign, send in your board policy.
Districts with policies that meet or exceed the state standard should e-mail a copy of their policy to Dana Kaye, school tobacco policy coordinator for the American Lung Association of Oregon, dana@lungoregon.org, or fax it to her at (503) 924-4120.
Those who have not yet updated their policies can download samples from OSBA’s Policy Services, Sample Policies. Version two of the Tobacco-Free Environment Policy was reviewed by the American Lung Association and the Tobacco Education division of Oregon Department of Health Services and meets the criteria for comprehensive policy for both organizations.
OAR 581-021-0110 states that no one is allowed to smoke, inhale, dip, chew or sell tobacco at any time, including non-school hours, in any building, facility or vehicle owned, leased, rented or chartered by the district, school or charter school. This includes grounds and parking lots. The OAR requires school districts in Oregon to implement policies and procedures by Jan. 1, 2006.
OAR 581-021-0110 (posted February 28, 2011) now expands the restriction of tobacco at any location under the jurisdiction of a public school or public charter school. OSBA created a comprehensive policy sample for districts to review and consider for modification of their existing policies. This rule applies to all students, staff and visitors and at all times and this OAR requires school districts in Oregon to establish policies and procedure to implement and enforce this rule.
Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes)
Subsequent to recent questions about e-cigarettes and discussion with the Oregon Health Division, OSBA is updating policy GBK/JFCG/KGC - Tobacco-Free Environment with optional language that broadens the definition of tobacco products while allowing prescription smoking cessation products.
The signs and banners are available in English and Spanish. Banners are three-feet-by-six feet, in red and black on white.
The American Lung Association has important information about tobacco-free school policies. You may call OSBA Policy Services with technical questions about updating your policy.
Sample Tobacco-Free Environment policies