Two laws target smokers in Mexico City

Public Affairs

Mexico
Two laws target smokers in Mexico City
Mexico City — The Mexican Senate has just passed nationwide restrictions on smoking in workplaces, restaurants, bars and other public places, mandating fines for violations and possibly 36-hour jail stints for any smoker who refuses to follow these regulations. That measure, The Mexican Congress' lower house has already passed this measure and President Felipe Calderon is expected to sign it into law.

Simultaniously, Mexico City's legislative assembly approved stricter rules for the capital banning indoor smoking in public locations, tightening restrictions passed in fall of 2007, which permitted bars and restaurants to set up smoking sections.

The national law restricts smoking in offices, hospitals and buses, except in designated areas, and allows for fines of up to $50,000 for non-compliance. Another part of the measure prohibits the sale of cigarettes by street vendors and mandates cigarette manufacturers to place larger health warnings on packers.

The local law is much more stern, requiring smoke-free workplaces, restaurants, and bars. Smoking is only allowed on open-air terraces or other outdoor spaces.