SMOKING RULES SET; SAY YOUR PIECE
Source: Canton (OH) Repository
Date: 2006-12-21
Author: PAUL E. KOSTYU COPLEY COLUMBUS BUREAU CHIEF, beh@odh.ohio.gov,
(614) 222-8901
URL: http://www.cantonrep.com/index.php?ID=325964&Category=9
ID: 238755
The rules connected to the statewide smoking ban in public places
have changed, and now the public can comment about them.
The changes respond to some concerns raised earlier this week at
a meeting of an advisory committee to the Ohio Department of
Health. The rules have been posted on the department's Web
site.
The most significant changes affect penalties, ashtrays and
signage.
The initial draft had a four-tier penalty system for business
owners who violate the law, which became effective Dec. 7. A
fifth level was added. The second draft now suggests: the first
violation results in a warning letter; second violation, $100
fine; third violation, $500 fine; fourth violation, $1,000 fine;
fifth and subsequent violation, $2,500 fine. Fines can double if
a business owner is found to have violated the law
intentionally.
The new draft also defines what is considered separate
violations.
Category -Smokefree Policies -Dining/Entertainment
State -Ohio
