Romania could expand the smoking ban to personal cars if there are minors or pregnant women in the vehicle. A similar smoking ban already applies in England, France, and other western countries.

Local MP Aurelia Cristea proposed the additions to the current law that bans smoking in public spaces, which she initiated and promoted, reports local Digi24. She argued that the amendments were needed to ensure a constitutional right, which says that children and young people enjoy a special protection regime.

Smoking would still be allowed in separate spaces, completely isolated and marked accordingly, as well as on outdoor terraces especially arranged for smoking.

The MP would also want the law to include new provisions related to the electronic cigarettes.

“The law doesn’t include the electronic cigarettes. They should be banned in playgrounds for children to avoid mimicry,” Cristea said.

The smoking ban in all enclosed public spaces entered into force in Romania in mid-March. Under the current law, smoking is forbidden in all public spaces that have a roof and minimum two walls. Find a short guide here.

However, the Senate decided in early-June that smoking would be allowed in special rooms, completely isolated and accurately labeled, as well as on outdoor patios set up for smoking. The Chamber of Deputies must also vote these changes. The health minister urged the MPs to reject them.

Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com