e-Newsletter
Voters pass I-901:
Prepare for a smoke free Washington!
On Tuesday, November 8th, 2005, Washington voters chose clean air and overwhelmingly approved Initiative 901. The initiative amends the 1985 Clean Indoor Air Act and now requires that ALL work places be 100% smoke free.
This means that on December 8th, Washington will join the growing list of smoke free states.
What does this mean for you as a resident or business owner? The information below contains answers to some frequently asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the ban take effect?
The ban takes effect on December 8th, 2005.
Where does the ban apply?
Smoking is now prohibited in all public places and all workplaces.
How are "public places" and "workplaces" defined?
"Public place" means any place used by and open to the public, regardless of ownership and regardless of whether a fee is charged for admission.
"Workplace" means any area which employees are required to pass through during the course of employment.
So is smoking banned everywhere, even in bars? What about after midnight or in smoking rooms?
I-901 bans smoking in public places and workplaces including but not limited to: bars, restaurants, bowling alleys, skating rinks, casinos, private clubs, reception areas and a minimum of 75% of rooms in hotels. There are no exceptions. The ban applies everywhere, all the time.
Is it true that there is no smoking 25 feet in front of any door or window?
Smoking is now restricted 25 feet from all doorways, windows and air intakes of any protected space mentioned above.
How is that going to be enforced?
Local law enforcement is responsible for enforcement of this rule with individuals. Keep in mind that a person passing by on the right of way (public sidewalk or street) while smoking would not be in violation of the "25 foot rule."
What is the penalty for violating the new law?
The new law includes a $100 fine for violators.
What if I have questions about the new law or want to figure out how to quit?
Give us a call at (206) 296-7613, email us at tobacco.prevention@metrokc.gov, or for information on quitting, visit quitline.com.
This is a great leap forward for clean air and for the public’s health. We still have a great deal of work ahead of us in terms of educating the community about the new law and developing a plan for enforcement.
We want to make compliance with this new law as easy as possible. If you run a business and need help making the switch please give us a call at (206) 296-7613.
We can send you helpful information and even visit your business and talk through what the switch can mean for you.
If you have a concern about the ban or want to report a violation the quickest way to do it is to send an e-mail to smoking.concern@metrokc.gov. Give us the address and all the relevant information. We will follow up with you via e-mail unless a phone number or physical address is given in your concern. Keep in mind that the ban does not go into effect until the first week in December. Public Health can only enforce the law with the owners and managers of businesses. Local law enforcement is in charge of dealing with smokers who might be violating the law. Don’t take matters into your own hands.
Please let us know what you hear about the new law and send us questions and comments as well. We appreciate your feedback and suggestions.
This web site contains information on Initiative 901, but it should not be considered legal advice and can not be considered as a substitute for legal advice from and representation by a qualified attorney.
Success Stories
Since going smoke free the Whistle Stop Ale House has attracted quality staff and loyal customers. Their bottom line increased by 40 percent in the first six months after they made the switch.
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Membership
Join the many others who have successfully made the smoke free switch and become a member of the Seattle Smoke Free Coalition.
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