DC Could Ban Smoking Near Buildings

The D.C. City Council is considering legislation that would push smokers away from buildings.

Currently, indoor smoking in generally prohibited in the nation's capital. Smokers typically take cigarette breaks outdoors at building entrances. That might be a lot harder if Councilman Phil Mendelson gets his way.

Legislation that Mendelson has proposed would grant authority to building owners to post signs prohibiting smoking on sidewalks within 25 feet of the structure.

"We've been getting complaints about smoke coming into buildings from people who are hanging out front of the buildings, smoking," explained the at-large Democrat.

And some non-smokers just don't like tobacco near the doorway. "You walk out, and you don't always want to smell [cigarette smoke]," complained Jason Zeigler, who "absolutely" supports Mendelson's proposed bill.

Smokers are less enthusiastic about the proposal.

"You're not allowed to smoke in a bar, anymore. So, I mean, where do you draw the line.... I think [this goes] a bit too far," said Natalie Paine during a cigarette break on a downtown D.C. sidewalk.

The Council is also considering separate legislation which would ban the sale of some cigar products. Ward 7 Democrat Yvette Alexander would ban the sale of some single cigar products or wrappers because they are frequently employed, "for marijuana and PCP use. Plain and simple."

At a council hearing, a representative of the cigar industry expressed concern that, as written, the law might unintentionally outlaw the sale of regular cigars.

Both council members expressed a willingness to modify their legislation before committee and Council votes are taken later in the year.

Links:

Referral of proposed legislation
http://www.dccouncil.washington.dc.us/images/00001/20090818065847.pdf

Read the legislation
http://www.dccouncil.washington.dc.us/images/00001/20090205120525.pdf