Nicholls State University banned the use of electronic cigarettes in February.

Jacuzzo believes that the electronic cigarette ban came about because they have become increasingly popular on campus, and it is possible for students to put illegal substances into the electronic cigarette container.

“There is no way to know what students are smoking when they are smoking these e-cigs,” Jacuzzo said. “It is also very distracting to students who have to deal with other students smoking e-cigs indoors.”
Electrical engineering sophomore Brandon Domangue believes that electronic cigarettes are a healthier alternative to regular cigarettes and that they should not be banned form campus.

“I feel like Nicholls is lumping me in with smokers because it looks like I’m smoking,” Domangue said. “The ban has to do with the appearance of vaping, not the movement behind it. I’m sorry my fruit-scented water vapor offends people.”

According to Jacuzzo, students will not be fined at this time for smoking cigarettes or electronic cigarettes on campus. If it becomes a problem, it could be implemented. Students will be given a warning for their first offense, and University Police will turn students into the Student Life Office to be disciplined accordingly.

“The tobacco ban is under the student code of conduct, so campus police doesn’t handle those matters directly. However, officers will turn repeat offenders into administration,” Jacuzzo said.

Students are asked to go off campus to smoke. Many students smoke across the Brady Residential Complex near the Recreation Center, but according to Jacuzzo that still counts as Nicholls campus.

“Nicholls campus stretches until the bridge off of Louisiana highway 1, so Brady residents will have to smoke elsewhere,” Jacuzzo said.

Some negative feedback that Jacuzzo has received is that this ban is singling out smokers trying to quit by using e-cigs, but Jacuzzo says that is not the case.

“We are just trying to make this campus completely smoke-free for all. It is for the betterment of all students and faculty at this University,” Jacuzzo said.

“This rule is put into effect immediately, and repeat offenders will not be tolerated. If students feel the need to smoke cigarettes or electronic cigarettes, they should do it elsewhere,” Jacuzzo said.

If students want more information on the additions to the non-smoking rule regarding electronic cigarettes, refer to the student code of conduct or contact campus police.