Bulgaria has introduced ban on smoking. Part 1

May 21, 2012

From June 1st Bulgaria will become practically non-smoking country. Smoking will be prohibited almost everywhere on country territory - this have decided deputies of Bulgarian parliament during heated discussion.

First summer day will become first day in Bulgarian history when lovers to drink a cup of coffee, read newspaper and smoke cigarette will have to restrict themselves only with coffee and newspaper.

According to new law smoking is prohibited absolutely in all country locations. Without limitation. Numerous restaurants, coffee shops, bars, night clubs - from June 1st they will become smokeless zone. Besides, smokers will not be able to enjoy cigarette smoke if their favorite team looses on stadium or in any sport object.

Law text prohibits smoking in straw-hat theatres, cinemas, and school and kindergarten yards and on sidewalks near them, on children's playgrounds, during any events for children even in case they take place on open air. Under full ban falls smoking in closed places of public use and on working places. However, Bulgarian deputies, after debates, allowed smoking in area of public transport stops and in specially designated zones in airports. In the city for smokers are allocated only sidewalks and parks and not everywhere as well.

Penalties for law infringement are quite serious. So, person that will dare smoking in one of indicated places will be penalized in amount of 150-250 euro. Even more will suffer bar or restaurant owner that has allows smoking - penalty is from 1500 to 2500 euro, after repeated infringement - up to 5000 euro. And fine will be imposed from lawbreaker no matter what nationality he has.