The Republic of Moldova is tightening legislation on smoking and the use of nicotine products, starting from June 24th. Among the announced measures is the expansion of the list of places where smoking will be prohibited, such as sports fields, beaches, public transport stations, and underground pedestrian passages, reports IPN.
The new rules target both traditional cigarettes and electronic cigarettes and tobacco heating devices. Moreover, smoking will be prohibited on apartment building stairs, in corridors, in elevators, and in other common areas of buildings. The ban also applies to apartment and dormitory balconies, where smoke can reach neighbors or common areas.
Another novelty is the introduction of a minimum protection distance around public buildings. Smoking and the use of electronic cigarettes will be prohibited within a radius of 10 meters from entrances, as well as near open windows or ventilation systems. The distance will be measured in a straight line, regardless of fences, walls or other obstacles, say health specialists.
At the same time, the law completely prohibits the sale of nicotine pouches for oral use, including those with synthetic nicotine. In parallel, electronic devices will have to comply with stricter safety and labeling requirements, and the promotion of these products will be more strictly regulated.
The new provisions also bring clear obligations for administrators of public spaces and employers. They will have to display no-smoking signs and ensure that the rules are respected, otherwise risking sanctions. For the absence of the no-smoking sign, the fines can reach up to 9,000 lei for persons in charge and up to 12,000 lei for legal entities, with the possibility of suspending activity.
If smoking is allowed or tolerated in prohibited places, the penalties increase and can reach up to 15,000 lei for companies and up to 12,000 lei for responsible persons. Individuals who do not respect the prohibitions risk fines between 1,750 and 2,250 lei or unpaid community service.
