Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB838

Introduced
1/17/22  
Refer
1/17/22  

Caption

Mississippi Smoke-free Air Act; create.

Impact

The implementation of HB 838 is expected to significantly enhance public health by reducing the risks associated with secondhand smoke exposure. It enforces strict penalties for violations, including fines for individual smokers and penalties for establishments that fail to comply with signage and smoking bans. This initiative could mark a transformative change in how public health is prioritized within state law, reflecting a growing trend towards smoke-free environments nationwide. It also signals a shift in legal accountability, as both private entities and individuals can be subject to sanctions for non-compliance with the provisions of the act.

Summary

House Bill 838, also known as the Mississippi Smoke-Free Air Act, aims to establish comprehensive regulations prohibiting smoking in enclosed public places and specified outdoor areas across the state of Mississippi. The act defines various terms related to public places, employment settings, and the nature of smoking. It emphasizes creating a healthier environment by minimizing exposure to secondhand smoke in areas frequented by the general public, such as restaurants, bars, healthcare facilities, and schools, as well as in outdoor environments close to sensitive areas like playgrounds and public transport stations.

Contention

Despite its public health benefits, the bill may face opposition from businesses that argue it could hurt their patronage, particularly in establishments that historically permitted smoking. Moreover, debates may arise regarding the enforcement measures stipulated in the bill, which authorize inspections and the possibility of private citizens taking legal actions to enforce compliance. Critics may express concerns over potential overreach and the impact on individual freedoms regarding personal choice in private settings. Thus, while the Act aims to protect health, it also raises questions about balancing public policy with personal liberties.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS HB107

Mississippi Smoke-Free Air Act of 2022; create.

MS HB107

Mississippi Smoke-Free Air Act of 2023; create.

MS HB46

Mississippi Smoke-Free Air Act of 2024; create.

MS HB361

Mississippi Smoke-Free Air Act of 2025; create.

MS HB881

Provides relative to the Louisiana Smoke Free Air Act

MS HB3460

SMOKE FREE ACT-E-CIGARETTE

MS SB1561

SMOKE FREE ILLINOIS-E-CIG

MS HB2252

Amending the Kansas indoor clear air act to prohibit smoking on the gaming floor of a lottery gaming facility or racetrack gaming facility and amending the definition of smoking to include the use of an electronic cigarette and smoking marijuana.

MS SB176

Amending the Kansas indoor clear air act to prohibit smoking on the gaming floor of a lottery gaming facility or racetrack gaming facility and amending the definition of smoking to include the use of an electronic cigarette and smoking marijuana.

MS HB531

Mississippi Tax Freedom Act of 2022; create.

Similar Bills

MS HB46

Mississippi Smoke-Free Air Act of 2024; create.

MS HB107

Mississippi Smoke-Free Air Act of 2023; create.

MS HB107

Mississippi Smoke-Free Air Act of 2022; create.

MS HB361

Mississippi Smoke-Free Air Act of 2025; create.

MS HB264

Energy Efficiency standards on buildings; extend repealer on statute requiring certain buildings to meet.

MS SB2339

Provision of law establishing energy efficiency standards for building construction; extend repealer on.

MS HB1422

Vaccine Discrimination and Transparency Act; create.

MS HB1193

Public K-12 and Postsecondary schools; prohibit DEI statements and practices.