The bill bans the use of tobacco in many public places, such as sports, educational and health care facilities. Employers and managers of facilities are also required to post signs and enforce the non-smoking bans.
The bill also restricts any advertising for tobacco products that promotes the purchase or use of tobacco.
Under this bill, the divisions of Customs and Taxation and the Minister of Finance are required to issue regulations against illegal importation and manufacturing of tobacco. They also need to coordinate these efforts internationally.
There was a positive response from the public during public hearings on this bill. The public, however, expressed concern that there is a lack of awareness that tobacco use, whether by smoking or by chewing, has significant health consequences.
