Clark County, Nevada is a bustling and diverse community with a population of over two million people. Unfortunately, it also has a higher than average rate of smoking and obesity. To protect the health of its citizens, the county has implemented a number of restrictions on smoking in public places. The Smoking in Public Places Act (RCW 70,160) is a state law that prohibits smoking in public places and workplaces to protect employees and the public from second-hand smoke.
Compliance with the law is the responsibility of the owner, manager, operator, or other person in charge of an area open to the public or workplace. If you see customers, employees, or visitors smoking or vaping indoors, you or your staff should tell them not to do so. The no-smoking area must be a minimum of 30 feet away from any public building entrance or exit so that no one entering or leaving can smell smoke. This applies to independent bars, taverns and taverns where minors are prohibited or that do not offer food service.
The Clark County Department of Public Health will enforce the law on smoking in public places and the Clark County Code 24.20 for businesses, including bars and restaurants. The county has also worked with community partners to ensure that several high-profile community events are smoke-free, such as CBS Radio's annual Bite of Las Vegas, the annual Las Vegas Gay and Lesbian Pride Festival, the Telemundo Fair, the Clark County Fair and Rodeo, and PET-a-Palooza. If you don't comply with the law, an employee or member of the public can report the violation to Clark County Public Health. Tobacco use prevention is also a priority health approach in Clark County. Approximately 22% of adults in Clark County smoke cigarettes, which exceeds the national average of 17%.
The use of smokeless tobacco is also a matter of concern among young people, a segment of the population that comprises approximately 25% of the county's residents. In addition, 15.4% of Clark County high school students are current smokers. Secondhand smoke contributes to approximately 41,000 deaths among non-smoking adults and 400 infants each year in the United States. Rates of obesity and tobacco use are disproportionately high among some segments of the Clark County population. The Clark County School District has made great strides in making school meals healthier for students. With the support of the CPPW initiative, Clark County has implemented a variety of changes throughout the community to facilitate healthy living. In conclusion, it is essential for everyone living in Clark County to be aware of the restrictions on smoking in public places and workplaces.
Compliance with these laws is essential for protecting citizens from second-hand smoke and promoting healthier lifestyles.
