Romanian authorities are facing calls to expand public smoke-free zones to protect minors from secondhand smoke. Former Family Minister Gabriela Firea proposed banning smoking near schools, parks, and transit stations, affecting the nation’s five million smokers as local police escalate indoor smoking fines.
Expanding Smoke-Free Zones to Protect Children
The proposed policy shift targets public spaces where children are present. Former Family Minister Gabriela Firea publicly advocated for these stricter rules, citing the dangers of passive smoking. “No tobacco near children! Secondhand smoke is just as harmful, and children must be protected, especially in public,” Firea stated.
The proposed ban would prohibit smoking in public transport waiting areas, parks, sports fields, playgrounds, and near healthcare facilities and schools. According to 2020 Eurobarometer data, 26% of Romanians smoke, leaving a large portion of the youth population exposed to cigarette smoke in public areas.
Romania’s proposed measures align with existing regulations in other European nations. For instance, the UK and Ireland banned smoking in vehicles carrying minors in 2015 and 2016, respectively. France prohibits smoking in public parks and cars with minors, while Finland aims to become entirely smoke-free by 2030.
updated: Timișoara Business Fined Under Indoor Smoking Laws
While lawmakers debate expanding outdoor restrictions, local police continue to enforce existing indoor smoking bans. In Timișoara, local police fined a fast-food establishment on Holdelor Street 5,000 RON after finding customers smoking indoors and ashtrays placed on tables.
The business, Ciocârlia SRL, was penalized under Law 15/2016, which amends Law 349/2002 on preventing and combating the effects of tobacco consumption. The law outlines a strict escalation pathway for businesses and individuals who violate indoor smoking bans.
| Offender Type | Violation Stage | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | Any violation | 100 RON to 500 RON fine |
| Business (Legal Entity) | First offense | 5,000 RON fine |
| Second offense | 10,000 RON fine + temporary activity suspension | |
| Third offense | 15,000 RON fine + permanent closure of the unit |
Local police forces are conducting unannounced inspections to ensure compliance. Business owners who fail to enforce the indoor ban risk escalating penalties, including the permanent closure of their establishments.
