Bakersfield College Memorial Stadium is now a non-smoking area. Signs have been posted that prohibit people attending the games from smoking in certain areas within the stadium. There will be designated areas where people can smoke inside and outside of Memorial Stadium.

Bakersfield College President Greg Chamberlain said these new rules have been set forth in obedience of California laws. “The college is responding to concerned fans who asked that smoking not be allowed within the stadium fencing,” explained Chamberlain.

Amber Chiang of BC Marketing and Public Relations described the areas that fans attending home games can smoke. They are outside the gates to the northwest of the stadium, on the home side and near the gymnasium. Smoking will not be allowed in any walkways, seating areas, or other public areas. Those who do not abide by the new regulation might be asked to leave the stadium.

Attendees of Renegade home games who are smokers shared their opinion on the new rule.

“I’ll just walk outside and smoke, it’s not that big a deal,” said Jason Grass, who usually smokes along the side of the bleachers.

Jerry McGill, who supports BC football and all other athletics on campus, agrees with the new rule and said it’s absolutely necessary.

“We come here to enjoy a football game, not smell somebody’s poison,” he said.

While most people didn’t seem to mind, others thought the new rule was unnecessary.

Tim Hollick explained that he didn’t agree with the new policy because it is an outside stadium. “Outside, I don’t know how you can get secondhand smoke unless you’re sitting on top of somebody.”

Josh Judkins also said that he thought the new policy had no point, because the stadium is outdoors. Though he understands why the new rule was implemented, he still thinks people should be able to smoke if they’re outside.

“As far as I’m concerned there is a way to be a courteous smoker, but there are some people who are really rude,” said Diann Hollick.