Frequently Asked Questions

When did Northeast Community College become tobacco-free?

Northeast Community College in Norfolk, O’Neill, South Sioux City, and West Point, became tobacco-free on Friday, August 1, 2014.

Why did Northeast become a tobacco-free college?

Northeast became a tobacco-free college out of respect for our community of students, faculty, staff, visitors, and our environment.

What does “tobacco-free” mean?

Northeast prohibits the use of cigarettes, cigars, pipes, electronic cigarettes, vapor products, oral tobacco (e.g., snuff, snus, chew, smokeless) and nasal tobacco or other products intended to imitate tobacco or deliver nicotine. Tobacco cessation devices are the only exception.

Are e-cigarettes allowed on Northeast property?

No. Northeast policy prohibits e-cigarettes and other nicotine delivery methods not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

What is defined as Northeast property?

Northeast property includes all buildings and grounds owned, leased, or controlled by Northeast. Northeast expects students, staff, faculty, volunteers, contractors, and visitors to respect private property bordering Northeast by refraining from trespassing for purposes of consumption of tobacco products.

Who is affected by this policy?

This policy applies to any person on Northeast property to include, but not limited to, students, staff, faculty, volunteers, contractors, and visitors.

Does this policy apply to student housing on Northeast property?

Yes, the policy prohibits the use of tobacco and any product intended to imitate tobacco products, other than a device approved for cessation by the FDA, on Northeast property, including student housing.

May I use tobacco products in my vehicle on Northeast property?

No. While a vehicle is on Northeast property, tobacco products are prohibited.

Do employees, students, contractors, and visitors have to quit using tobacco?

No; however, tobacco products and alternative nicotine products may not be used on College property. If you are ready to quit, Northeast wants to support your efforts. Please refer to the tobacco cessation information, or, consult your healthcare provider.

May I bring cigarettes or other tobacco products to a Northeast facility?

No. The policy prohibits tobacco or tobacco products on any person on Northeast property.

How will the policy be enforced?

Enforcement of the policy is a shared responsibility of students, staff, and faculty. Northeast expects respect, courtesy, and cooperation from all members of the Northeast community. It is expected that individuals will voluntarily choose to follow this policy out of respect for others and the environment.
Violations will be handled like any other conduct issue at the College: either through the employee's department, Human Resources, Student Conduct Office, or security services.

How will employees manage a tobacco addiction under the new policy?

Employees may use their allotted meal periods to travel off College property to use tobacco products. Employees will not be given additional time for use of tobacco products.

How should I approach someone who is using tobacco on campus?

Approach the individual with respect and assume the individual is not aware that Northeast is a tobacco-free college. For example, in a friendly tone and with a smile you could say, “Hi. You may not be aware, but Northeast is a tobacco-free college. We would appreciate it if you would not use tobacco products while on College property. Thank you for respecting our community.”

How should I respond if someone becomes angry or aggressive?

In the event that an individual who is requested to comply with the policy becomes angry or belligerent, College security may be notified to offer assistance.

Isn’t it my right to use tobacco?

Tobacco is a legal product for adults. However, the College can establish policies that protect the health of the College community.

What resources are available to assist with tobacco cessation while on Northeast property?

Individuals who wish to use nicotine replacement therapy may use any form of over-the-counter or prescription medication approved by the FDA for this purpose.
Online tools are available for more information and assistance.
The Student Health Center is located on the Norfolk campus in the Student Center, Room 216. The Student Health Center can be contacted by phone at (402) 844-7176.

What will Northeast do to help employees or students who may want to quit using tobacco products?

Northeast is committed to providing education and support to individuals who are considering becoming tobacco-free. Northeast provides web resources, informational programs, and printed materials.

What other Nebraska colleges are tobacco-free?

Bellevue University, Central Community College, College of St. Mary, Clarkson College, Creighton University, Mid-Plains Community College, Nebraska Methodist College, University of Nebraska—Kearney, University of Nebraska Medical Center, and York College.