Washington's Smoking in Public Places Act

As the recognition of the dangers of second-hand smoke continues to spread through out the nation, so does the number of states who are wiling to protect their people. Washington state became one of these no-smoking states when it put into effect it's Smoking in Public Places Act, which was formerly known as the Washington Clean Indoor Air Act. This Act prohibits smoking tobacco products in public places and workplaces.

Washington's Smoking in Public Places Act states that smoking is prohibited in public places and places of employment. This act clearly defines smoking as "carrying or smoking of any kind of lighted pipe, cigar, cigarettes or any other lighted smoking equipment" or product. It goes on to define public places as any enclosed area such as a building or vehicle where the general public is allowed access. This act pertains to all buildings and vehicles open to the public, whether or not they are privately owned or not and if an entrance fee is charged or not. The smoking ban also includes the area outside the building in question, of up to twenty-five feet from all entrances, exits, functioning windows and ventilation systems. Some examples of these public places are schools, public transportation, museums, libraries, indoor sports arenas, health care centers, restaurants, banks, casinos, waiting rooms, reception areas, retail stores and bowling alleys.

Places of employment where smoking is prohibited, according to the Washington Smoking in Public Places Act are "any area under the control of a public or private employer which employees are required to pass through during the course of employment." Examples of these places are work areas, restrooms, conference rooms, hallways, elevators, break rooms and employee lounges, and cafeterias. The twenty-five foot rule also pertains to places of employment as mentioned above.