Romania Tightens Fines for Smoking in Prohibited Places

Romania is set to crack down on smoking in prohibited places with harsher fines for both individuals and legal entities. The Social Protection, Health and Family Committee has examined a draft amendment to the country’s tobacco control legislation, which will be proposed for approval to the plenary session of the Parliament.

Steep Fines and Potential Business Restrictions

Under the proposed changes, legal entities found smoking in prohibited places could face fines of up to 15,000 lei (approximately €3,000) and may be deprived of the right to carry out certain activities for up to one year. Individuals caught smoking in restricted areas will be fined up to 2,250 lei (approximately €450) or required to perform 40 to 60 hours of unpaid community work.

The bill also introduces harsher penalties for those selling tobacco products in prohibited places or to minors, with fines reaching up to 20,000 lei (approximately €4,000).

Read more: Italy and Romania Oppose EU’s Proposed Outdoor Smoking and Vaping Ban

Expanded List of Smoke-Free Zones

The amended legislation seeks to expand the list of places where smoking will be prohibited. These include open public spaces, territories of public authorities, medical and sanitary institutions, educational institutions, social, cultural, and sports institutions. Smoking will also be banned in workplaces, near windows, on sports fields, children’s playgrounds, in parks, on beaches, and in public transport stations. Furthermore, smoking will be prohibited in the staircases of apartment buildings, elevator cabins, and other common spaces.

Employers and owners of public spaces will be obligated to ensure a smoke-free environment for their patrons and employees.

Read more: European Parliament Proposes Ban on E-Cigarettes in Public Spaces

The bill introduces new labeling requirements and warnings for related products, such as electronic cigarettes, refill bottles, and herbal smoking products. These products must contain clear warnings about nicotine content and associated risks, with health warnings covering 30% of the packaging surface.

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