E-Cigarette Use Ban in Illinois Indoor Public Spaces
The Illinois Department of Public Health releases information on the recent extension to the Smoke-Free Illinois Act.
Updating the Smoke-Free Illinois Act.
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has released information about a new law that addresses a public health issue concerning vaping. The new law started January 1, 2024, and will ban the use of e-cigarettes in indoor public spaces.
What is the Smoke-Free Illinois Act?
The Smoke-Free Illinois Act (the Act), enacted in 2008, is a law that seeks to protect the health of the public at large by prohibiting smoking in indoor public spaces and workplaces in Illinois. Public spaces impacted include but are not limited to:
- Restaurants and bars
- Retail stores
- Offices and workplaces
- Public transportation
- Government buildings
- Educational facilities
- Healthcare facilities
The Act also established a minimum distance requirement for smoking near outside entrances, windows, and ventilation systems.
E-cigarette use is banned in indoor public spaces.
Beginning January 1, 2024, the Act has been extended to include e-cigarettes as “strictly forbidden in indoor public spaces and within 15 feet of a public entrance.”
Under the new law, electronic smoking and vaping devices, commonly known as e-cigarettes, will be added to the list of prohibited items for use in indoor public spaces. Those favoring the new law emphasized its importance in creating safe and clean environments for all Illinois residents.
What is the rationale for the ban?
Dr. Sameer Vohra, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), underscores the harmful effects of e-cigarettes, which contain nicotine and other toxic chemicals. Just like traditional smoking, e-cigarettes and vaping can lead to lung damage and nicotine addiction.
The IDPH views the ban as a proactive measure to protect not only e-cigarette users but also those exposed to secondhand e-cigarette aerosol.
Resources for businesses and consumers.
IDPH has made resources available to help businesses and consumers comply with the updated regulations.
Business owners can find information and download signage for their establishments by accessing the IDPH website or contacting their local health department. Consumers can also use the IDPH website or contact their local health department to report non-compliance with the indoor smoking/vaping ban.
Leadership acts in the public interest.
While some may consider the extension of the Act as an inconvenience, the IDPH notes that banning e-cigarette use in indoor public spaces is one more step towards protecting the health and well-being of all Illinois residents and visitors.
As your local health department, we remind everyone that quitting smoking and tobacco use is one of the most significant actions a person can take to improve their health.
We invite you to check out the MCHD article titled “What is the Real Cost of Smoking Cigarettes?”
For additional information and personal support with reducing tobacco use, contact the Illinois Quitline at 1-866-QUIT-YES (1-866-784-8937) or visit their website.