SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5876

As of January 19, 2004

Title: An act relating to authorizing local governments to restrict or prohibit smoking in public places.

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

Sponsors: Senators Oke, Fairley, Stevens, Rasmussen, Brandland, Parlette, Spanel, Thibaudeau, Kohl-Welles and McAuliffe.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Health & Long-Term Care: 1/22/04.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE

Staff: Rhoda Donkin (786-7198)

Background: The Washington Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits smoking in public places, except in designated smoking areas. The term "public place" applies to buildings or vehicles that are used by and open to the public, regardless of who owns the facility and if a fee is paid to enter.

State law allows smoking in bars, taverns, bowling alleys, tobacco shops, and restaurants without requiring it be restricted to smoking areas.

Summary of Bill: Cities, towns, and counties may adopt more stringent ordinances to restrict smoking in public places, including in restaurants, skating rinks, and bowling alleys, regardless of whether such restrictions are more stringent than those imposed by state law.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.