These regulations require each local school system to maintain a tobacco-free school environment. In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated. Terms Defined. “Official school day” means the regular school day with a designated starting time and ending time as defined by the local school system. “School buildings” means local school system owned or leased buildings. “School grounds” means local school system owned or leased land that surrounds a school building. Tobacco. “Tobacco” means products derived from the tobacco plant that are smoked, chewed, sniffed, or otherwise consumed. “Tobacco” does not include nicotine replacement therapy. The sale or use of tobacco in any form is prohibited in school buildings at all times. In addition, the sale or use of tobacco in any form is prohibited on school grounds during the official school day. Each local school system shall post notification to students, staff, and the general public that school buildings and grounds are tobacco-free. The State Department of Education shall develop guidelines to assist the local school systems in implementing a tobacco-free environment. Each local school system is encouraged to make smoking cessation classes available to all employees. By September 1, 1993, each local superintendent of schools shall certify in writing to the State Superintendent of Schools that the regulations in this chapter are implemented. Education Article, §2-205, Annotated Code of Maryland Effective date: November 9, 1992 (19:22 Md. R. 1988)