SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5921

BYSenators Bailey, Rinehart, Fleming, Lee, Murray, Anderson and Stratton

Prohibiting the use of tobacco on public school property.

Senate Committee on Education

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 28, 1989

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended.

      Signed by Senators Bailey, Chairman; Lee, Vice Chairman; Fleming, Gaspard, Murray, Rinehart.

Senate Staff:Leslie Goldstein (786-7424)

                  March 1, 1989

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION, FEBRUARY 28, 1989

BACKGROUND:

The health risks associated with smoking or chewing tobacco products have been the subject of many years of research and debate.  The U.S. Surgeon General's warning required on cigarette packages by federal law have become increasingly specific in recent years, identifying the risks of cancer, heart and lung diseases, and low birth weight in children of women who smoke during pregnancy.

Most school districts in the state prohibit smoking by students on school property, while other districts attempt to accommodate students and staff who smoke by providing designated smoking areas.  A few districts have adopted policies which prohibit smoking on all school property by employees and students.

SUMMARY:

Each school district board of directors must adopt a written policy prohibiting the use of all tobacco products on public school property.  The board of directors may set the schedule for the development and enforcement of the policy.  However, a total ban on the use of all tobacco products must be enforced by September 1, 1991.

SUMMARY OF PROPOSED COMMITTEE AMENDMENT:

The policy is permitted to exempt alternative educational programs from the prohibition.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: FOR:  Mike Ryherd, Tobacco Addiction Coordinating Council; Janet Chalupnik, American Lung Association; CON:  Dwayne Slate, Washington State School Directors' Association