CALIFORNIA IN BRIEF : BERKELEY : University to Ban Smoking on Campus

Citing the dangers of secondhand smoke, UC Berkeley says it will ban smoking in virtually all campus buildings starting Aug. 1. Smoking will continue to be allowed outdoors, but it will be forbidden in any building owned or leased by UC with the exception of private living space in university housing. “Tobacco smoke is clearly a health hazard to smokers and nonsmokers alike. . . . Research has demonstrated that secondhand smoke produces adverse health effects in nonsmokers,” a university statement said. The new policy was approved earlier this week by UC Berkeley Chancellor Chang-lien Tien, university spokeswoman Lynn Atwood said. The smoking ban includes private offices, cafeterias, restrooms and university cars.