Bill > SB510

This bill requires publicly-owned or publicly-operated properties that are accessible to the public and allow smoking to create designated smoking areas that completely contain cigarette smoke, ensuring no smoke is visible or detectable in any public or common area. The legislation amends the Indoor Smoking Act by adding a new provision that mandates these smoke-containment areas, but specifically excludes state-controlled properties that are not open to visitors. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, and while it does not provide direct funding, the Department of Administrative Services estimates potential implementation costs of approximately $260,000 for constructing smoke-containment enclosures across approximately 100 buildings, with additional ongoing maintenance expenses. The department notes that creating truly smoke-undetectable areas will be challenging due to variable factors like wind direction and speed. Despite the potential costs, the bill aims to balance smoking accommodations with maintaining clean air in public spaces, providing a designated area for smokers while protecting non-smokers from exposure to secondhand smoke.

Government Affairs

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1294&inflect=2