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Non Smoking Laws in Oregon

Public perception regarding tobacco users in general, and cigarette smokers specifically, has drastically changed over the past two decades. In the middle of the 20th century, smoking was permitted inside many buildings, practically every restaurant, and many smoked in their homes as well. The public simply did not understand the health risks posed by smoking and being exposed to second-hand smoke. Recently, however, many states have enacted laws to limit where one can light up. Oregon passed the Oregon Smokefree Workplace Law in 2007. Then, in 2009, the Oregon legislature voted to make additional adjustments to the law.

  1. Workers Affected By the Law

    • The Oregon Smokefree Workplace law prohibits smoking in enclosed public areas and most workplaces. Some of the many affected areas include bars, taverns, bingo halls, employee break rooms, truck stops and assisted living facilities. In addition to the state law, many cities and counties in Oregon passed earlier smoking regulations. If you are in one of those jurisdictions and the local law is stricter, it will supersede the state law.

    Complying with the Law and Penalties

    • The Oregon Smokefree Workplace law is relatively easy to comply with, according to the state's website. The owner of a workplace must first make sure all employees are familiar with the law and must provide training to employees on how to ask visitors and patrons not to smoke. According to the Oregon state website, all ashtrays and smoking receptacles must be removed from the workplace as well.

      Much of the enforcement of the law requires the help of employees and patrons. There is an online complaint form that employees or customers can use to report an institution that is in violation of any of the smoke-free workplace laws. Additionally, complaints can be filed by calling 866-621-6107. Fines of up to $500 per day can be levied against businesses not in compliance with the law.

    Exceptions to the Law

    • While the law outlaws smoking in most public places and workplaces, there are some exceptions. Exceptions to the law include certified smoke shops, certified cigar bars and hotel rooms that are designated smoking rooms by the owner of the hotel. A cigar bar must retail cigars, must have a liquor license and must prohibit smoking of any other kind of tobacco. A hotel owner is allowed to designate up to 25 percent of his rooms as smoking permitted. Additionally, smoking of non-commercial tobacco is permitted for American Indian ceremonial purposes, according to the state's website.

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