France is getting tough on smoking. As of July 1, lighting up will be banned in outdoor public spaces where kids are present. This includes popular spots like beaches, parks, and areas outside schools. The goal is to reduce health risks, especially for young people.
According to French Health Minister Catherine Vautrin, the new rule will apply to various outdoor areas, such as bus stops and sports stadiums. However, it won’t affect cafes or bars with outdoor seating. E-cigarettes are also exempt from the ban.
Those who break the rules will face a fine of around $135. Regular police officers will be responsible for enforcing the law. Minister Vautrin believes that people will respect the new rule, saying that freedom to smoke should end where children’s freedom to breathe clean air begins.
Currently, about 23% of the French population smokes regularly, which is the lowest rate on record. This number has dropped by more than 5 percentage points since 2014. Meanwhile, a national anti-smoking committee estimates that smoking-related illnesses claim over 75,000 lives each year in France, accounting for around 13% of all deaths in the country.
A recent survey by the French Cancer Association found that nearly 80% of the population supports banning smoking in public spaces and restaurant terraces. The French government is taking a firm stance on smoking, and it will be interesting to see how the new law is received by the public.