SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1532

As of March 18, 2003

Title: An act relating to prohibition of smoking in residence halls at public institutions of higher education.

Brief Description: Prohibiting smoking in residence halls of schools, colleges, and universities.

Sponsors: House Committee on Health Care (originally sponsored by Representatives Quall, Cox, Schual-Berke, Kenney, Pflug, McDermott, Simpson, Hunt, Rockefeller and Kagi).

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Health & Long-Term Care:

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE

Staff: Tanya Karwaki (786-7447)

Background: The Washington Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits smoking in public places, except for certain facilities that may designate smoking areas. A "public place" is any portion of a building or vehicle used by and open to the public. There are public places specified in statute in which a smoking area may not be designated. For example, smoking is prohibited in classrooms and lecture halls of schools, colleges, and universities. Colleges and universities may permit smoking in certain designated areas, including residence halls.

Summary of Bill: Smoking areas may not be designated in residence halls of schools, colleges, and universities that are public places. The Higher Education Coordinating Board must adopt a rule defining "residence hall."

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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