SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5981

As of February 22, 2001

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 Thibaudeau, Costa, Kohl‑Welles, Eide and Regala.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Health & Long‑Term Care:  2/22/01.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG‑TERM CARE

Staff:  Rhoda Donkin (786‑7198)

Background:  Smoking in public places is prohibited in this state except in areas designated as smoking areas.  Public places include portions of any building or vehicles used by and open to the public.  Statute defines public places and also defines what types of facilities cannot be used, or have a designation for public smoking areas.

Enforcement of smoking restrictions in this state is carried out by local law enforcement, who can issue notices of infractions to individuals who smoke in public areas.  Local fire departments or fire districts and local public health departments are authorized to enforce smoking laws related to owners of establishments where smoking is prohibited or restricted.

Summary of Bill:  Cities, towns or counties are permitted to adopt regulations which prohibit smoking in public places that are more restrictive than state law.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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