Texas A&M University-Commerce to become a Smoke-, Vape- and Tobacco-free Campus

Someone smoking a e-cigarette.

Texas A&M University-Commerce will become a smoke-, vape- and tobacco-free campus on January 1, 2020.

Dr. Mark Rudin, president of A&M-Commerce, sent a letter to the university community on December 13 explaining the details of the decision and policy.

“In a directive received from John Sharp, chancellor of The Texas A&M University System on October 1, 2019, the use of electronic cigarettes has been banned on all Texas A&M System campuses, including Texas A&M University-Commerce,” Rudin stated. “Chancellor Sharp asked that we implement the ban as quickly as possible.”

The letter explains that the university was also encouraged to align its tobacco-use policy with the vaping ban. In response, university administration consulted several on-campus groups, including the Faculty Senate, Student Government Association, Staff Council, University Police Department, Student Affairs, Residential Living and Learning, Safety, Athletics, and Administrative Council. After in-depth discussions among its members, each group reported back in favor of making the A&M-Commerce campus tobacco free.

In turn, after careful consideration and discussion, university administration decided that­–in the interest of the health and wellness of the entire community–the campus will officially become smoke-, vape- and tobacco-free beginning January 1, 2020. The ban will be in effect on all university property.

“We realize that this will not be an easy transition for everyone,” Rudin acknowledged, “but we ask for your support for this decision.”

The president concluded the letter by thanking everyone for their cooperation and understanding as the campus community works to make A&M-Commerce a healthier place to teach, work, live and learn.

View the policy and related FAQs at tobacco and vaping policy.