Tobacco Use and Possession
NEPN/NSBA Code: ADC

The health hazards of tobacco use have been well established and accepted by society. Therefore, the policy stated below is established to:

  1. Reflect and emphasize the hazards of tobacco use;

  2. Further the goal of consistency among ongoing school programs by discouraging students from using tobacco products;

  3. Protect the health and safety of all students, school personnel, and the general public; and

  4. Set an example of non-tobacco use by adults.

Maine State law defines “tobacco products” as cigarettes, cigarette papers, or other tobacco product. Tobacco products also include any other form of tobacco or any device used in smoking or other forms of tobacco consumption, including, but not limited to cigarette papers, pipes, and other devices designed to deliver nicotine through inhalation or vaping, or used to simulate smoking. It is illegal for persons under 18 years of age to buy or possess tobacco products.

Possession or use of tobacco products by students in any school system location is prohibited. The use of tobacco products by school personnel in any school system location is also prohibited.

“School system location” means in any school building or on any school premises; in any school-owned vehicle or in other school-approved vehicle used to transport students to and from school or school activities; off school property at any school-sponsored or school-approved activity, event, or function, such as a field trip or athletic event, where students are under the jurisdiction of the school unit; or during any period of time such employee is supervising or in the presence of students on behalf of the school system.

In an effort to ensure a healthy and safe environment for all students, school personnel and visitors the following conduct is prohibited at all times in any school location:

  1. Possession or use of tobacco products by students;

  2. The use of tobacco products by school personnel; and

  3. Selling, distributing or in any way dispensing tobacco products to students.

Smoking or other use of tobacco products by visitors to school facilities is prohibited. This includes attendance at all functions that use school facilities whether during school or non-school hours.

Legal Reference:   22 MRSA §§ 1578(B), 1580(A)(3)

Me. PL 470 (An Act to Reduce Tobacco Use By Minors)

20 USC 6081-6084 (Pro-Children Act of 1994)

Adopted:        March 13, 2008

Revised:        January 26, 2017