New law bans tobacco use at public, private schools

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – Smoking and tobacco use will be banned all the time at public and private schools in Oklahoma, including at sporting events, under a new law that takes effect later this week.

The 24/7 Tobacco-Free Schools Act that takes effect on Thursday also prohibits anyone from using tobacco in school vehicles or at any school-sponsored event, even after hours.

Gov. Mary Fallin signed the bill into law and says it is important that school-aged children are not exposed to unhealthy habits like smoking or dipping.

The bill does not apply to electronic cigarettes or vapor products, but Fallin urged schools to include those products in their tobacco-free policies.

The bill also allows technology centers and colleges and universities to designate outdoor smoking areas for adults.