By Corrections1 Staff
HARRISBURG, Pa. — Starting July 1, Pennsylvania’s prison system is banning all tobacco products in every facility.
DOC Secretary John Wetzel says the new policy will promote a healthier environment and increase safety through the elimination of black-market tobacco sales, WHTM reports.
Tobacco products found or used inside prisons by inmates or staff will be considered contraband. Products including cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, tobacco substitutes, pipes, pipe cleaners, rolling papers, roller aprons, lights and filters will all be banned.
Inmates and staff will be allowed to use non-refillable e-cigarettes approved by the DOC in designated areas.
Nicotine replacement therapy patches will be available for inmates through an approved vendor as well as smoking cessation programs, support services and educational materials.