§23-20.9-3  Legislative intent – Purpose. –  it is the intent of this health legislation to eliminate the exposure of children attending school, and other persons working in schools, to the school-site health hazard of tobacco ... to protect the health and welfare of children in school by eliminating the exposure of children in school to the significant, life-threatening health hazard of tobacco smoke. ...  to create a tobacco-free school environment ....

 

§ 23-20.9-4  Definitions. – As used in this chapter:

(2) "School or schools" means ...   "and outside areas within twenty-five (25) feet of any school building. "

Tobacco use is prohibited in all Rhode Island elementary and secondary schools by the “Smoking Restrictions in Schools Act” (RI General Laws Chapter 23-20.9). This includes:

·         All persons - including students, staff, contract workers, and visitors;

·         All areas of the school - including all buildings, indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, playgrounds, buses and other vehicles, and outside areas within 25 feet of any school building; and

·         Any substance or item which contains tobacco, including smokeless tobacco.

Smoking is further prohibited in schools, as they are considered workplaces under “Public Health and Workplace Safety Act” (RIGL Chapter 23-20.10)

Navigating the teen years can be formidable. Research shows that kids who learn from their parents about the dangers of underage drinking, illicit drugs, tobacco use, dangerous driving and other risky behaviors are less likely to engage in them.

This booklet provides the information and expert advice you need to help guide your teen to a healthy life. From setting expectations and rules to monitoring your teen, to being a good role model, the advice is simple and easy to do, with suggestions for actions to take daily, weekly or monthly. Whether you are a mom or dad, single or married, grandparent or other caregiver, this handbook provides tips and advice that you can use.