24/7 Tobacco-Free Schools

Commercial tobacco use is the foremost preventable cause of premature death in America. Oklahoma recognizes that young people are particularly vulnerable to the addictive properties of tobacco products, and youth that begin using tobacco products are particularly likely to become lifelong users.

The use of tobacco products on school grounds, in school buildings and facilities, on school property or at school-related or school-sponsored events is detrimental to the health and safety of students, staff and visitors.

The 24/7 Tobacco-Free Schools Act aims to promote a healthy learning and working environment, free from unwanted smoke and tobacco use for the students, employees, and visitors in Oklahoma. This state law requires that schools be tobacco free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and prohibits the following:

• The use of tobacco in any form, including e-cigarette and vapor products
• The use of tobacco by anyone, at any place, and at any time
• The use on tobacco while on school grounds and during any school sponsored functions held off campus, including school vehicles and school-sponsored activities

The full text of the law is available online.  

It is important for schools to assess and modify their current school policy to ensure it includes all details as stated in the law. While going through the process to update policy, it may be helpful to clearly define terminology and add additional language around enforcement guidelines.

For more information about reviewing or updating your tobacco-free school policies, please contact the Tobacco Use Prevention Program Coordinator at (405) 271-3619.

Tobacco Prevention & Youth Engagement Resource Guide

If you are interested in obtaining the "No Tobacco Use" signs used by the Oklahoma State Department of Health please submit the order form with the school policy to the center@health.ok.gov. Metal signs are available to schools that have not previously received them while supplies last at no cost. Schools may also purchase additional signs from the Oklahoma Correction Industries.

Oklahoma Correctional Industries Sales Office
4545 N. Lincoln Blvd, Suite 103
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
(405) 964-7200
(800) 522-3565
Email using this link: http://www.ocisales.com/contactus