Effective May 1, 2010, smoking will be banned in all public places throughout the state of Michigan, including workplaces, restaurants (even patios), and bars under the Dr. Ron Davis Smoke-Free Air Law. This ban does not include casinos, cigar bars, tobacco specialty retail stores, home offices, and collectively bargained agreements negotiated before enactment (December 18, 2009).
Under the new law, a workplace is defined as an enclosed indoor area that contains one or more work areas for one or more persons employed by a public or private employer. Smoking in private offices within a commercial work establishment is prohibited. Smoking is permitted in outdoor areas surrounding a business, but the law is silent on the distance requirements.
Business owners will be required to prevent workers from smoking on company premises by implementing the following measures, among others:
- Post no-smoking signs or the international no-smoking symbol at each entrance and in other areas where smoking is prohibited under this act.
- Remove ashtrays and other smoking paraphernalia where smoking is prohibited.
- Inform individuals who smoke in violation of this act that they are in violation of state law and are subject to penalties.
The penalties for not complying with the law include fines for the businesses: no more than $100 for the first offense and no more than $500 for the second offense.
If you have questions about the Dr. Ron Davis Law or compliance with its provisions, please contact ASR Health Benefits at (616) 957-1751 or (800) 968-2449 and ask for Maggie Tueth.