Smoke-Free Illinois Act to Now Include Electronic Smoking Devices
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 17, 2024
Contact
Cassie Smith, Special Project Assistant
217-531-1211 /
Tanya Giannotti, Public Relations
217-531-2925 /
Smoke-Free Illinois Act to Now Include Electronic Smoking Devices
New Law Began on January 1st
CHAMPAIGN, IL – As of January 1, 2024, The Smoke-Free Illinois Act (SFIA) now prohibits the use of e-cigarettes, vapes, and other electronic smoking devices in public places, places of employment, and within 15 feet of any entrance, exit, open window, or ventilation intake. Businesses are required to update their signage to explicitly include vaping and e-cigarette use. These signs must be strategically placed within clear view for both employees and patrons.
According to the Smoke-Free Illinois website, an electronic cigarette is defined as “any product containing or delivering nicotine, or any other substance intended for human consumption that can be used by a person in any manner for the purpose of inhaling vapor or aerosol from the product. Electronic cigarette includes any such product, whether manufactured, distributed, marketed, or sold as an e-cigarette, e-cigar, e-pipe, e-hookah, or vape pen or under any other product name or descriptor.”
To assist businesses in complying with the updated regulations free printable signage is accessible at www.smoke-free.illinois.gov. Additionally, the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) will soon provide new signage, along with instructions for businesses on how to request these updated materials.
As the designated local enforcement agency for the Smoke-Free Illinois Act in Champaign County, CUPHD holds the responsibility of ensuring the safety of the community. Individuals witnessing violations of the Smoke-Free Illinois Act can report complaints conveniently through the CUPHD website at www.c-uphd.org/submit-smoking-complaint.html.
To support a smooth transition for local businesses and patrons adapting to the updated Act, CUPHD has implemented a 'grace period' extending until March 31st, 2024. During this period, complaints regarding
vaping or the use of e-cigarettes will not lead to written citations. Instead, violating businesses will receive warning letters and informational materials. It's important to note that the potential issuance of citations will commence from April 1st, 2024, onwards.
For more information, visit https://www.c-uphd.org/tobacco-regulation.html.
###