University of Wyoming Smoking Regulations Revised to Include E-Cigarettes

Electronic cigarettes are now no different than other tobacco products as far as the University of Wyoming is concerned.

The UW Board of Trustees voted unanimously Friday to revise smoking regulations to include e-cigarettes.  Just like other smoking devices, their use is now prohibited in all university buildings and during outdoor events.

“I think it’s a great idea because there are potential harmful effects from e-cigarettes,” says Dr. Joanne Steane, director and staff physician at the UW Student Health Service.

The university says e-cigarettes can only be used in outdoor areas that are “a reasonable distance” from entryways, passageways, ventilation systems and windows.

“I think it’s just one of those deals that was probably going to be unstoppable,” says Taylor Ruzicka, owner of Cowboy Vapor & Tobacco.  “A lot of those people don’t really know this industry… so they kind of jump to conclusions before the real facts are out there.”

The Faculty Senate, Staff Senate and Associated Students of UW backed the revision, which is consistent with the City of Laramie’s smoking ordinance.