There are new measures to protect Ontarians from the dangers of smoking. Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 replaces the existing Smoke-Free Ontario Act and Electronic Cigarettes Act with one single legislative framework.

Effective immediately, the new Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 (SFOA 2017) regulates the sale, supply, display, promotion, and the use of tobacco, cannabis and vapour products (e.g., e-cigarettes).

The new SFOA, 2017 will expand those measures currently in place for tobacco, vapour products and cannabis by prohibiting their use in certain public places. The Act prohibits smoking of tobacco or cannabis and the vaping of any substance in the following areas:

· Within 9 metres of the perimeter of bar and restaurant patios.

· On recreation facility property and within a 20-metre perimeter of their grounds.

· On school property and within a 20-metre perimeter of school grounds.

Grey Bruce Public Health Tobacco Enforcement Officers are designated to enforce these regulations within the community.

Individuals with questions related to the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 can contact Grey Bruce Public Health at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 1211.

source: media release, GBHU