Regulation of Smoking

REGULATION OF SMOKING. INITIATIVE STATUTE. Finds and declares that smoking in enclosed areas is detrimental to nonsmokers. With specified exceptions, makes smoking unlawful in enclosed public places, places of employment and educational and health facilities. Requires restaurants to establish nonsmoking sections in dining areas. Prohibits employment discrimination based on exercise of rights provided by this statute. Permits stricter local government smoking regulations. Requires posting of signs designating areas where smoking is unlawful. Allows Legislature to amend consistent with intent of this statute. Provides penalties for violations. Financial impact: Modest cost to state and to individual local governments for purchase, installation of NO SMOKING signs in public buildings. Minor enforcement costs. Possible cost to alter public employee working facilities to accommodate smoking employees. If proposition leads to significant reduction in smoking, could result in substantial reduction in health and other smoking related government costs and would result in substantial reduction in state and local sales, cigarette tax collections