SB197 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Tammy Irons

Democrat

Co-Sponsors

Jerry L. FieldingGerald O. DialPaul BussmanGreg J. ReedHarri Anne SmithVivian Davis FiguresGeorge M. “Marc” KeaheyBobby D. SingletonLinda Coleman-MadisonQuinton RossRodger SmithermanDel MarshJ.T. WaggonerWilliam “Bill” M. BeasleyTom Whatley

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Health, smoking prohibited in places of employment, public places and private clubs, outdoor areas, exceptions, responsibilities of Health Department and State Board of Health, penalties, Smoke-free Air Act, const. amend., Secs. 22-15A-1 to 22-15A-10, inclusive, repealed

Summary

SB197 would repeal the old indoor smoking law and create the Alabama Smoke-free Air Amendment of 2012, banning smoking in most workplaces and public places and certain outdoor areas with exceptions for private clubs and private residences not used for care facilities.

What This Bill Does

It would prohibit smoking in all enclosed areas of public places and places of employment, and extend restrictions to certain outdoor areas such as near entrances, outdoor seating, playgrounds, and outdoor arenas. It also provides definitions, sets rules for owners and employers to enforce the ban, and protects reporters from retaliation. The bill establishes penalties for violations, allows local governments to require stricter rules, and assigns enforcement responsibilities to the Department of Public Health and the State Board of Health.

Who It Affects

• Employees, customers, and other people in workplaces and public places who would be protected by the smoking ban and may report violations.
• Owners, managers, and employers who must enforce the ban, post signs, notify applicants and employees, and could face fines, civil penalties, or licensing actions for violations.

Key Provisions

• Prohibits smoking in all enclosed areas of public places and places of employment; prohibits smoking in specified outdoor areas (e.g., within 15 feet of entrances, outdoor seating, outdoor playgrounds, outdoor arenas, and outdoor service lines); exempts private clubs and certain private residences not used as care facilities.
• Establishes enforcement and penalties, including posting No Smoking signs, notifying employees, and removing ashtrays from prohibited areas; assigns fines (up to $50 for individuals, up to $100 first violation for an establishment, up to $200 for subsequent violations, and civil fines up to $1,000 for third+ violations within a year), possible suspension or revocation of permits, nuisance abatement, and potential legal action; allows delegation of duties and local adoption of stricter rules.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Health