Brief Description: Authorizing local governments to restrict or prohibit smoking in public places.

Sponsors: Representatives Ruderman, Schual-Berke, Cody, Moeller, Morrell, Darneille, Romero, Kenney and McIntire.

Hearing Date: 3/4/03

Staff: Amy Wood (786-7127).

Background:

The Washington Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits smoking in "public places" except in designated smoking areas. "Public place" is broadly defined to include virtually every indoor location in the state except for private residences, private enclosed work places, and private facilities to the extent that they are closed to the public.

A smoking area may be designated in a public place by the owner or lessee of an establishment. Where smoking areas are designated, physical barriers and ventilation systems must be used. Only bars, taverns, bowling alleys, tobacco shops, or restaurants may be designated smoking areas in their entirety.

Summary of Bill:

A city, town, or county may restrict or prohibit smoking in public places situated within its jurisdiction, including, but not limited to, restaurants, skating rinks, and bowling alleys, regardless of whether such restrictions or prohibitions are more restrictive than state law.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not Requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.