HB383 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Mary Sue McClurkinCity Council

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Smoking, in places of employment and public places, prohibited, State Board of Health to enforce, Alabama Smoke-free Air Act, Secs. 22-15A-1 to 22-15A-10, inclusive, repealed

Summary

The bill would ban smoking in all enclosed public places, places of employment, and enclosed areas of private clubs in Alabama, require signs and enforcement, and replace the old Clean Indoor Act.

What This Bill Does

Smoking would be prohibited in all enclosed areas of public places and workplaces, and in enclosed areas of private clubs. It sets up definitions, signage requirements, and allows owners to designate nonsmoking areas. Outdoor smoking would be restricted within 15 feet of entrances, exits, windows, outdoor seating, playgrounds, and outdoor service lines, and enforcement would be handled by the Department of Public Health with fines and potential license actions for violators. The bill repeals the existing Alabama Clean Indoor Act and includes other compliance and enforcement rules.

Who It Affects

• Employees and customers who would be protected from secondhand smoke in enclosed public places and workplaces
• Owners, managers, and operators of businesses and private clubs who must enforce the ban, post signs, and could face fines or licensing consequences for violations

Key Provisions

• Prohibits smoking in all enclosed areas of public places and places of employment, and in enclosed areas of private clubs
• Defines key terms (public place, place of employment, private club, bar, enclosed area, etc.) to determine the act's scope
• Requires posting of No Smoking signs at spaces and entrances; removes ashtrays from areas where smoking is prohibited; allows owners to designate nonsmoking areas
• Outdoor smoking restrictions: within 15 feet of entrances, exits, windows, outdoor seating, outdoor playgrounds, and outdoor service lines; includes outdoor arenas
• Enforcement and penalties: fines for individuals; escalating fines for owners; civil fines for repeat violations; possible suspension or revocation of licenses; nuisance abatement; complaint process; and repeal of the prior act; effective date after governor's approval

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Smoking