Smoking may be banned in restaurants, bars, and workplaces in the Northern Marianas under a bill that has been introduced in the House of Representatives.
House Bill 16-47, sponsored by Rep. Justo S. Quitugua, proposes to make public places smoke-free. Exemptions include open-air bars, hotel rooms, and outdoor jobsites.
In his 14-page bill, Quitugua cites a long list of studies concerning ill health effects of secondhand smoke. He also says analyses have shown a link between a smoking ban and the profitability of restaurants and hotels.
“It is the duty of the Commonwealth Legislature to provide a healthy and safe environment for the people of the CNMI as well as for visitors to our islands. This includes establishing smoke-free public and work places for the benefit of all, and particularly for the elderly and children,” Quitugua states in his bill.
He adds that a smoking ban will protect the public health and welfare, and guarantee the right of nonsmokers to breathe smoke-free air, and recognize that “the need to breathe smoke-free air shall have priority over the desire to smoke.”
Home | Weather | Advertising | Classifieds | Subscription | Contact
Us | About Us | Archives
©2006 Saipan Tribune. All Rights Reserved
