Mayor Signs Executive Order Prohibiting Tobacco Use in Tuscaloosa

A new policy plans to prohibit the use of tobacco products at City of Tuscaloosa owned or rented facilities, grounds or vehicles. The goal is to provide workers, contractors, and visitors a healthier environment, as noted in a statement.

The use of cigarettes, cigars, and pipes will be prohibited. The ban will also include e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco. This tobacco-free policy begins on January 1st of 2016, making it one New Year's Resolution some will be mandated to keep. This comes one-year after similar action was taken on the University of Alabama campus.

The City's statement adds:

The new policy protects people from the dangers of second-hand smoke, promotes a healthier environment and reduces littering.

The City will provide resources to support its staff as this policy takes effect. Over the next few months, the City of Tuscaloosa will implement an information campaign and begin working with employees who wish to break their addiction to tobacco products.

There is this exception, as designated smoking areas will remain in place at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater and public parks owned by the city.

For more information, call Tuscaloosa 311 at 205-248-5311.