Snohomish Health District is currently seeking preliminary public comment on a proposal to adopt and amend the state Smoking in Public Places law (SIPP).

The intent is not to change the law adopted by voters in 2005, but to make it more clear in light of current trends. The Snohomish Health District proposes adding language to the local code to make it clear that the law applies to marijuana and hookah smoking, as well as to cigarettes.

The local code would also better define the terms “employer,” “employee,” “public place” and “place of employment.” These clarifications will assist business owners and the public to better understand the law. The Snohomish Health District is responsible for enforcing no smoking laws in Snohomish County, with the support of law enforcement and local jurisdictions.

The Snohomish Health District is seeking preliminary public comment on the concept of a local no smoking in public places law from Sept. 1 -15. A link to the comment form is on the Health District website,www.snohd.org/localsmokingcode.

Written comments may also be mailed to:

SIPP Public Comment

Snohomish Health District

3020 Rucker Ave, Suite 203

Everett, WA 98201

Public comments will be used to develop the draft local code. A summary of all comments will be provided to the Board of Health, which will ultimately adopt, modify or take no action on the proposal.

Additional opportunities for public review and comment will occur throughout the fall, as draft language for local code is considered.  A schedule for this process is posted on the website.

No smoking laws reduce everyone’s exposure to second hand smoke and increase the likelihood that current smokers will quit. The Smoking in Public Places Law prohibits smoking in all restaurants and bars as well as in all indoor workplaces.

Tobacco use continues to be the leading cause of preventable death and illness. Locally, 17 percent of adults and 14.5 percent of 12 graders use tobacco.