One Year Later, Some Students Still Bemoan Smoking Policy
More than a year after Cal State LA banned smoking on campus, students report mixed feelings about the policy, with some still holding grudge.
“I’m not doing anything wrong. I study my butt off everyday,” said Erika Banahan, a third year student. “With all this stress that I deal with from work and school [and trying to find parking], I just want one place on campus where I can smoke in peace.”
The policy banning all smoking on campus — including cigarettes, marijuana and vape pens — took effect Sept. 1, 2017.
University officials say it was intended to improve student health.
“The health and well-being of the Cal State LA community is of vital importance. The no smoking policy contributes to a healthy environment for all,” said Robert Lopez, a spokesperson for Cal State LA.
Giselle Velazquez, a fourth-year Television, Film and Media Studies major and a non-smoker, can see both sides. “ I understand where campus is coming from, since second-hand smoke is very dangerous…But I feel bad for all the other students who smoke cigarettes to relieve stress,” she said. “We have to be fair with each other especially in a college campus. People have different lifestyles yet we shouldn’t marginalize people just because they smoke.”
Linda tobgui • Apr 24, 2019 at 3:58 pm
I think there should at lest be one smoking section on campus. It’s not very realistic to try and keep students healthy when they’re going to probably go home and smoke anyways. And yes, second hand smoke is dangerous but not if the smoking dr toon is away from those who do not smoke. Might as well have a small section on campus for those who are stressed and need to smoke. Come on now, cal state LA.. I’m here for 5 hours 2 times a week and I have no car. I hate having to walk so far away from campus to catch a break. Please take it into consideration.