MGC Student Tobacco Use Policy

The use of tobacco products by any individual on any campus of Middle Georgia College is strictly prohibited except in the designated tobacco-use gazebos provided on each campus or in the fully enclosed passenger compartment in an individual’s personal vehicle with all windows closed. This includes all smoking and smokeless tobacco products. Tobacco users utilizing the gazebos should position themselves inside the gazebo unless crowded conditions make this impossible. In such cases, the designated tobacco-use area may extend no more than 6 feet from the perimeter of the gazebo, and shall not in any case extend onto any public walkway regardless of distance from the gazebo.

Tobacco-use byproducts such as cigarette butts or smokeless tobacco juice must be disposed of in the appropriate receptacles provided in or adjacent to each gazebo. Disposal elsewhere or on the grounds of the College is strictly prohibited and is considered a violation under this policy.

Violations of this tobacco-use policy by students, either with regard to use of tobacco in non-designated areas or with inappropriate disposal of byproducts, as documented by college personnel, will subject the violator to the following actions, fines, and sanctions:

First offense: $25 fine.

Second offense: $50 fine. The student will be placed on disciplinary probation.

Third offense: $100 fine and referral to the College Judicial Committee for violation of Conduct Regulations in the Student Handbook including the Tobacco Use Policy, violation of probationary status (if still on probation), and multiple violations of college regulations. Sanctions for a third offense may carry a penalty of suspension for a minimum of one full semester from enrollment at MGC. If suspended, the student will be required to appeal in writing to the Vice President for Student and Public Affairs before reinstatement as a student.

Fourth or greater offense: $250 fine and referral to the College Judicial Committee. Sanctions may range up to expulsion.