Smoke-free mandate set to begin Jan. 1

Publication Date: 2008-12-03

• Author:Larry Meyer
• Publication:Argus Observer

Oregon smokers will be compelled to pay careful attention to where they light up starting Jan. 1 when the state's new Smokefree Workplace Law goes into effect.

The mandate bans smoking in most public places and workplaces with only a few exceptions.

"It's designed to protect employees and patrons from second-hand smoke," Kelly Jensen, R.N., tobacco prevention and education coordinator, Malheur County Health Department, said...

Among the places that will be included in the smokefree decree are bars and taverns, including bar areas of restaurants, bowling centers, bingo halls, private and fraternal organizations, employee break rooms, privates offices and commercial office buildings, assisted living facilities, movie theaters and indoor entertainment venues.