Jump to full article: Saipan Tribune (mp), 2009-04-16
Author: Kristi Eaton Reporter
Intro: The Senate passed a bill yesterday banning smoking in workplaces and public areas, although the legislative body made some changes easing the restrictions that were originally on the House bill.
All seven members present voted to pass House Bill 16-47, or "the Smoke-free Air Act of 2008." Senators Luis Crisostimo and Paul Manglona were absent. The Senate earlier took up the bill but sent it to committee where some amendments were made.
Under the legislation, all enclosed public places and indoor workplaces must be completely smoke-free. The Senate reduced the amount of space from 25 feet to 15 feet required between the smoke-free area and doorways, windows, and ventilation intakes.
Also, 10 percent of the total square footage of a hotel may be designated as smoking areas as long as it is not enclosed. . . .
The smoking ban does not apply to bars, private residences, and retail tobacco stores, as well as hotel rooms and private rooms in nursing homes that are designated as smoking. . .
The House must now vote on the amendments before it goes to the governor for his signature.
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