Putin signs law banning smoking in public in Russia

[Jazzy]

Smoking in public places will be banned in Russia after President Vladimir Putin signed a tough new bill into law.



Under the new legislation, smoking in restaurants, long-distance trains and housing block entrance halls will be illegal.



The government has made reducing smoking one of the cornerstones of its bid to improve public health.



Russia has one of the highest smoking rates in the world, with more than four in 10 Russians considered smokers.



Parliament passed the bill earlier in February, with only one deputy in the State Duma voting against the legislation.



The law On protecting the health of citizens from the danger of passive smoking and the consequences of the use of tobacco will come into force in stages, beginning on 1 June.



On that date, smoking will be banned within 15m of entrances to stations, airports, metro stations and ports; in workplaces; in entrances to apartment blocks; and in children's playgrounds and on beaches.



Exactly one year later, smoking will be banned on long-distance trains and ships; in hotels; in restaurants, bars, cafes, shops and markets; and on suburban railway platforms.



Under the bill, a minimum retail price will be introduced for tobacco and its sale and advertising will be restricted.

Source



Considering an estimated 40% of Russians are smokers, this is going to be interesting to see how well this ban will work.



What are your thoughts on this smoking ban?

 

[DrLeftover]

Well, the ban on public smoking in New York state has been delayed, so Russia is in the lead in that category.

Thanks to the work of a NYC-based smokers' rights advocacy group, smokers across the state will after all be able to light up in New York state parks, beaches, and pools this summer.

Governor Andrew Cuomo suspended a smoking ban this week, originally enacted in April, after encountering some unforeseen opposition.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/...sstate-parks-clash-audrey-silk_n_1556280.html





still in effect in City

http://www.wnyc.org/blogs/wnyc-news...-effect-despite-states-suspension-mayor-says/

 

[Evil Eye]

You're not allowed to smoke in shops, restaurants, bars, trains, buses or public buildings over here either.

Looks like they're taking it a step further.