The new anti-smoking law continues taking steps to expand smoke-free spaces in Spain. He Council of Ministers has given the green light to the project promoted by the Ministry of Health, directed by Mónica García. The reform expands the spaces where smoking will be prohibited and adapts the legislation to new tobacco-related products, such as electronic cigarettes and vaping devices, which will receive the same treatment as conventional tobacco.
The standard incorporates new spaces where smoking will no longer be allowed, a measure that is part of the Comprehensive Smoking Prevention and Control Plan 2024-2027. The Government’s intention is to adapt the legislation to new forms of nicotine consumption and strengthen the protection of the population, especially minors.
Where will smoking be prohibited with the new anti-smoking law?
The reform extends smoking ban to new outdoor and shared-use spaces. Among them are:
- Terraces of bars and restaurants.
- Shelters and bus stops, even if they are outdoors.
- University campuses and other outdoor educational venues.
- Courtyards of institutes and educational centers.
- Sports facilities, both outdoors and in their entrances.
- Vehicles for work use, when shared.
- Pools for collective use.
- Beaches, when determined by the competent administrations.
- Outdoor recreational spaces, such as playgrounds.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health intends that these restrictions also apply to electronic cigarettes, vapes and other similar devicesequating its regulation to that of conventional tobacco.
The objective of the new anti-smoking law
According to Health, the reform seeks reduce tobacco consumption, protect non-smokers and reduce exposure to smoke in shared use spaces. The ministry headed by Mónica García considers that expanding smoke-free spaces constitutes an effective measure to prevent diseases related to smoking and promote healthier lifestyle habits.
The new regulations are part of the Comprehensive Smoking Prevention and Control Plan 2024-2027, with which the Government aims to reduce the prevalence of tobacco consumption and update legislation that had been without relevant changes for years.