Outdoor Tobacco-Free Policies Implemented by a Local Transportation Authority

Audience: Groups implementing public health policy

Key Points: Capital Metro, the transportation authority in Austin, Texas, has implemented tobacco-free policies for its properties, transit centers, and rail platforms using a phased-in approach beginning in September 2010. This decision was made to protect the health of its employees as part of its award-winning Wellness Program. Initial approval for the policy was made by the Capital Metro executive and leadership teams before being approved by the Board of Directors. A change in leadership in the middle of this process, as well as a turbulent political climate for the transportation authority, required some changes in the proposed path and timeline to implementation. Extensive employee engagement was conducted through multiple workplace forums to inform the employees of the reasons for the policy and to gather feedback. Surveys of employees and the community of transit riders were also conducted.  This presentation will detail the steps taken by Capital Metro and the Austin Tobacco Prevention and Control Coalition on the successful creation and implementation of its tobacco-free policy.

Educational Experience: This presentation will highlight the policy development process, discuss methods for policy enforcement, and describe evaluation of the policy effectiveness.

Benefits: The audience will understand the process of implementation of tobacco-free policies within a transportation authority.