Vape Pen Debate at Linn-Benton

Over the winter break a new policy was implemented at Linn-Benton. Students and faculty are no longer allowed to use vape pens on campus.

“From the College side of this argument, and I have observed this first hand, Vape users are disruptive to classroom, study, and culinary environments,” said Bruce Thompson, safety and loss prevention.

Currently Oregon State University, University of Oregon, Lane Community College, and Chemeketa Community College prohibit the use of vape pens on campus.

“I don’t think vape pens need to be treated like cigarettes as far as having a designated vaping area,” said previous student Johnie Stiltner.

Vape pens are to be used at the designated smoke shacks located around campus by McKenzie Hall, Takena Hall, English Language & Culture Institute, Luckiamute Center, and behind the service building.

“I do not like being forced to use the smoking area because the smell of cigarettes makes me nauseous,” said student Dennis Hill.

The use of vape pens is considered to be a healthier alternative over tobacco cigarette smoking according to many retailers, however considering that they are a new product there is little evidence proving a “healthy” alternative.

“To me vape pens are trading one evil for another,” said SLC President Adelaine Carter.  

Vaporizers use water, e-liquids, or juices that are made up of four ingredients: Propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, food-grade flavors, and the optional nicotine.

“Smokeless does not mean harmless,” said Chareane Wimbley-Gouveia, Learning Center coordinator.

The debate of whether vaping is cleaner for you and the environment because it does not emit second-hand smoke or nasty smells continues.

“The smell is barely there when someone uses a vape pen compared to cigarettes,” said student Christie Gangewer.

Currently the FDA does not regulate vape pens, according to vaporizer-pen.org. There are no laws with regards to the materials and ingredients that must be used in production of vape pens. It is also said that the odds of vaporizers helping you quit smoking overnight are very low.

There have been cases of users being allergic to one of the ingredients in e-liquids called Propylene Glycol.

“I think vape pens are a cool tool for people who like to use them and are way less invasive than cigarettes,” said student Kamran Ahmed Mirza.

Overall vape pens are legal and a consenting adult can engage in their use.

“Vape pens are a personal choice,” said student Nikki Ponce.