University of Central Missouri set to go tobacco free

WARRENSBURG, Mo. -- The University of Central Missouri will become a tobacco-free campus by July 2014.

Under a policy approved Friday, tobacco will be prohibited on campus grounds and in all university-controlled buildings, including residence halls and apartments. Tobacco use also will be barred in university-owned or leased vehicles. There are a handful of exceptions. For instance, the policy won't be enforced on parking lots during public events, such as commencement.

Banned tobacco products include cigarettes, pipes, cigars, hookah/water pipes and chewing tobacco.

The policy was developed by an 11-member committee.

The school will begin a six-month initiation period in January 2014. The school also will distribute information and provide opportunities for people to take advantage of low-cost tobacco cessation programs.