Smoking Law Overview

Ohio voters passed Issue 5 on Nov. 7, 2006, creating Ohio’s indoor smoking ban under a new chapter of the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) effective Dec. 7, 2006. This new law requires “public places” and “places of employment” prohibit smoking as of that date. These businesses and organizations must also post “No Smoking” signs that contain the telephone number 1-866-559-OHIO (6446) for reporting violations; and remove ashtrays and other smoking receptacles.

Local Health Districts throughout Ohio and Ohio Department of Health is responsible for enforcing the Smoke Free Workplace Law. The enforcement process began on May 3, 2007 and is performed on a complaint basis.  Click here to view the final draft of OAC 3701-52.

The Smoking Law in Lorain County

The Lorain County General Health District, who has been managing the enforcement and education of the law within its jurisdiction, feels that the majority of the establishments in Lorain County have chosen to comply with the law. Unfortunately, the health district is still receiving smoking reports for establishments throughout the county. Click here to see how establishments in Lorain County have been doing in comparison to other health jurisdictions throughout Ohio.

Are you Thinking about Quitting Smoking?

Smoking harms nearly every organ of the body, causing many diseases and affecting the health of smokers in general. Quitting smoking has immediate as well as long-term benefits for you and your loved ones.  Click here to view additional information that may help you make your decision to quit smoking today!

Just Quit Smoking or Using Tobacco Products? 

Maybe you've just quit smoking or chewing or you're in the process of quitting.  Congratulations! You've taken an important step toward living each day healthier and having more time and money for yourself. 

That doens't mean that there aren't challenges ahead of you; one of the hardest parts of quitting for good is breaking the daily habits you've built up around tobacco use. After all, you can't start living like a nonsmoker until you start acting like one.

Click here to read more on how to replace old habits with new healthy ones.