Starting July 1, smoking will be banned in various outdoor public spaces in France, a move aimed at safeguarding children's health, as announced by the country's health minister, Catherine Vautrin.
France Implements Smoking Ban in Public Areas for Children's Health
France Implements Smoking Ban in Public Areas for Children's Health
New legislation set to take effect in July prohibits smoking in outdoor areas frequented by children.
In a recent interview with Ouest-France, Vautrin emphasized the need to fortify children's right to breathe clean air, stating, "Tobacco must disappear where there are children." The ban will cover critical areas including beaches, parks, gardens, school zones, bus stops, and sports facilities, although outdoor cafés and bars (known as terrasses) will remain exempt.
Anyone caught violating the ban may face a fine of €135, and enforcement will be carried out by regular police, although Vautrin expressed her belief in voluntary compliance. Despite the ban, electronic cigarettes will not be affected for now, though discussions are in progress regarding nicotine content limits.
The smoking prevalence in France has hit a historic low, with only 23.1% of the population smoking daily, down from over 28% in 2014. Unfortunately, tobacco-related illnesses still account for around 75,000 deaths annually.
While smoking restrictions have existed in restaurants and nightclubs since 2008, previous proposals to expand bans to more public areas were stalled. Nevertheless, over 1,500 municipalities have already taken the initiative to restrict smoking in outdoor locations, with almost 80% of the French population reportedly in favor of stricter smoking regulations in public spaces such as parks and beaches.
The recent move highlights France's ongoing efforts to combat smoking and raise public health awareness.
Anyone caught violating the ban may face a fine of €135, and enforcement will be carried out by regular police, although Vautrin expressed her belief in voluntary compliance. Despite the ban, electronic cigarettes will not be affected for now, though discussions are in progress regarding nicotine content limits.
The smoking prevalence in France has hit a historic low, with only 23.1% of the population smoking daily, down from over 28% in 2014. Unfortunately, tobacco-related illnesses still account for around 75,000 deaths annually.
While smoking restrictions have existed in restaurants and nightclubs since 2008, previous proposals to expand bans to more public areas were stalled. Nevertheless, over 1,500 municipalities have already taken the initiative to restrict smoking in outdoor locations, with almost 80% of the French population reportedly in favor of stricter smoking regulations in public spaces such as parks and beaches.
The recent move highlights France's ongoing efforts to combat smoking and raise public health awareness.
