Columbus Department
of Public Health

 

The Smoke-Free Air Act of Georgia

Effective July 1, 2005

On July 1, 2005, West Central Georgia Health District along with the rest of the state, will take a huge step forward in the fight against tobacco related diseases by becoming the first tobacco producing state to place a ban on smoking. This ban includes most workplaces and restaurants that serve or employ anyone under 18 years of age.

* All facilities should begin adhering to the smoking ban by the effective date. Below is a summary of SB 90- The Smoke free Air Act of Georgia 2005:
Smoking is prohibited in restaurants and bars that allow admission or employment of persons under the age of 18 at any time; however, this does not apply to private enclosed rooms in restaurants that are enclosed and separately ventilated.
* Smoking is restricted in businesses and work sites; an exception is made for those that are open to the public by appointment only.
* Private and Military Clubs are exempted.
* Smoking is prohibited also in all government buildings.

“At last we will be able to eliminate this serious health hazard from public places,” said Dr. Zsolt Koppanyi, district health director for the West Central Health District.
Enforcement is the duty of the Department of Human Resources and the county boards of health and their duly authorized agents.

A toll free educational hotline (1- 866-385-0065) has been established to allow persons to call with questions or concerns related to the new law. This number is a public health service for Chattahoochee, Clay, Crisp, Dooly, Harris, Macon, Marion, Muscogee, Quitman, Randolph, Schley, Stewart, Sumter, Talbot, Taylor and Webster County.

See more information provided by the State of Georgia or contact:

View the Georgia SmokeFree Air Act

Mark Ellis, MPA
Health Promotions Program Consultant
West Central Health District
P O Box 2299 / 2100 Comer Ave.
Columbus, GA 31902
meellis@gdph.state.ga.us
706-321-6239
706-321-6326 fax