The Green-led state government is introducing a comprehensively revised state non-smoking protection law – an important step for more health protection in everyday life and a clear signal for prevention. Children, young people and vulnerable groups in particular should be significantly better protected from the dangers of passive smoking in the future.
A law for indoors and outdoors
The previous law dates from 2007. The amendment significantly expands the scope of protection. For the first time, e-cigarettes, tobacco heaters and other products containing nicotine or cannabis are fully included in the law.
There are also new clear rules and smoking bans for outdoor areas such as:
- Playgrounds
- Bus and train stops
- Schoolyards
- Zoos, amusement parks and outdoor swimming pools
The fines will also increase up to 200 euroson repeat up to 500 euros increased – an important signal for noticeable enforcement.
Protection indoors remains key – clear rules for the catering industry
Smoking remains strictly prohibited in all publicly accessible indoor spaces. Smoking rooms can still exist in restaurants, but only with access for adults. This must be clearly stated at the entrance – a further step for transparency and protection of minors.
Citizens’ forum is involved in the law for the first time
The special thing about the new Non-Smoking Protection Act: For the first time in Baden-Württemberg, a citizens’ forum was directly integrated into a legislative process. 51 randomly selected citizens worked together with experts to develop recommendations. Some of these can be found in the draft law. At the same time, 35 associations also took part in the hearing.
Petra Krebs, spokesperson for health: This draft is the result of long and demanding negotiations. We Greens and also the Citizens’ Council would have liked more extensive regulations. But it is a compromise that significantly advances health protection – especially for children and young people. Because they are exactly the focus of this amendment: in terms of health, because they are particularly at risk. Social, because early influences last a lifetime.
With this amendment we are sending a clear message: Baden-Württemberg protects health before illness occurs. We create reliable rules for clean air and healthy living spaces.
