Florida Lawmakers Push for Smoke-Free Public Spaces: New Proposal Aims to Ban Smoking Statewide

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In the midst of a wave of legislative initiatives, two lawmakers in Florida are championing a bill that seeks to prohibit smoking in public spaces across the state. This bold move comes as part of broader efforts to enhance public health and cleanliness in the Sunshine State.

The proposed legislation, known as HB 389, was introduced in November by State Senator Robert Andrade, a Republican from Pensacola, with support from Democratic Senator Debra Tendrich of Lake Worth. Their bipartisan effort underscores a shared commitment to improving community environments.

Central to the bill is the definition of what constitutes a “public place.” The legislation specifically targets common areas, which include several key public spaces across Florida:

• • Streets

• • Sidewalks

• • Highways

• Public Parks

• Public Beaches

• Schools

• Hospitals

• Government buildings

• Apartment buildings

• Office buildings

• Lodging establishments

• Restaurants

• Transportation facilities

• Retail shops

That includes tobacco and marijuana products, though the bill does have an exception carved out for unfiltered cigars.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits smoking or vaping marijuana products in any airport’s customs smoking room.

While HB 389 was first introduced last month, it still has three committee hearings to pass through before it can go to a full House vote. No details about when those committees will be scheduled have been revealed at this time.

But if HB 389 manages to get approved by lawmakers and signed by the governor, it is set to take effect on July 1.