The following is provided by Seattle and King County Public Health. For more information, please go to http://www.metrokc.gov/health/tobacco/901.htm

Initiative 901: Expanded Indoor Smoking Law (Effective December 8, 2005)

On Tuesday, November 8th, 2005, Washington voters chose clean air and overwhelmingly approved Initiative 901. The initiative amended the 1985 Clean Indoor Air Act and required that all work places be 100% smoke free. As of December 8^th 2005, Washington has joined the growing list of smoke-free states.

What does this mean for us as residents or business owners in the state of Washington? The information below contains answers to some frequently asked questions. If you have any questions, please contact Department of Public Health at 206-296-7613.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When does the ban take effect?

The ban takes effect on December 8th, 2005.

2. Where does the ban apply?

Smoking is now prohibited in all public places and all workplaces.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. Is it true that there is no smoking 25 feet in front of any door or window?

Smoking is prohibited near all doorways, windows and air intakes of any protected areas (public place or place of employment) if smoke enters that protected space.

6. How is that going to be enforced?

Complaints about smoke entering protected areas will be investigated. If there is an ongoing problem with smoke entering protected areas there could be a violation found and a fine assessed.

7. What is the penalty for violating the new law?

The new law includes a $100 fine for violators.

8. 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 or visit quitline.com for information on quitting.