The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a smoke-free campus, aligning with state laws such as the Smoke-Free Illinois Act, the Smoke-Free Campus Act, and the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act. The university's policy aims to protect community health by reducing exposure to secondhand smoke and encouraging healthier behaviors.
The tobacco-free policy covers all UIC property, including laboratories, classrooms, offices, residence halls, buildings, outdoor spaces like the Quad, parking structures, and lots. Smoking and the use of tobacco products are not allowed within 15 feet of any building entrance, exit, window, or ventilation intake. The only exception is public sidewalks bordering UIC property. The policy applies to various forms of tobacco and related products such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes (including hookahs), chewing tobacco and smokeless products, electronic cigarettes and vaping devices, as well as cannabis products.
According to UIC officials Michael Ginsburg and John Coronado: "The University of Illinois Chicago is committed to cultivating a thriving, health-promoting environment where all members of our community can live, learn, work and flourish. As part of this commitment, UIC maintains a tobacco-free policy consistent with the Smoke-Free Illinois Act, the Smoke-Free Campus Act and the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act. These laws and policy are designed to protect our collective well-being by reducing exposure to secondhand smoke and encouraging healthier choices."
Non-compliance with these regulations may result in warnings or fines. The university emphasizes that following this policy demonstrates care for oneself and others.
UIC offers several resources for those seeking support in quitting tobacco use. Services include personalized care at the UI Health Tobacco Treatment Center on campus; virtual support through the Illinois Tobacco Quitline; educational materials from the American Cancer Society; and tools from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Ginsburg and Coronado stated: "Together, we can foster a healthier, more supportive campus community. Thank you for helping to make UIC a place where everyone can thrive."