Smoking ban expanded: Parks and beaches included

France has expanded its smoking ban, closing many public areas to smoking. With the new regulation, smoking is now prohibited in places such as beaches, parks, public gardens, and bus stops. This decision aims to protect children from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.

With the ban coming into effect, areas around libraries, outdoor areas of swimming pools, and school grounds will also be among the places where smoking is prohibited. Individuals who do not comply with the bans will be subject to an administrative fine of 135 euros (approximately 6,278 TL).

Minister of Health and Families Catherine Vautrin emphasized children's right to breathe clean air, stating, "Tobacco should be completely removed from areas where children are present." However, no regulations were made regarding electronic cigarettes, and cafe and restaurant terraces were kept outside the scope of the ban.

News Source: 12punto