Ga. regent member proposes campus smoking bans

ATLANTA - An orthopedic surgeon serving on the University System of Georgia's Board of Regents is proposing to ban smoking at the system's 31 schools.

Thomas Hopkins told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution he wants the university system's board of regents to consider a smoking ban early next year. The ban would apply to all students, staff and visitors.

Smoking is already banned in enclosed state-owned, or leased, facilities. University system officials say Hopkins' proposal would ban smoking on all outdoor campus areas as well.

Some students have said the proposal encroaches on their rights.

Incoming Regents Chairman, Philip Wilheit, is president of a Gainesville packaging company and implemented a tobacco ban at his office. He says regents have a responsibility to act in the best interest of students.