Tobacco.org

Smoking out on campuses 

As of today, using tobacco products is forbidden on Athens Technical College's main campus in Athens, as well as satellite campuses in Elbert, Walton and Greene counties.

College officials made just one exception: Students and staff can smoke if they are sitting in their own vehicles, and are allowed to keep a door open when they do.

Penalties for violators will be stiff - a letter of warning on a first offense, a $50 fine for a second violation and dismissal from the college for a third. Despite the stringent policy, Athens Tech officials expect the change to go smoothly today, as spring quarter classes begin.

Other state colleges have enacted similar restrictions with little complaint, said Andrea Daniel, Athens Tech vice president for student affairs.

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