HB1696 Summary

• Amends Arkansas Code § 20-27-1804 to clarify that smoking prohibitions apply only to publicly owned places of employment, not privately owned businesses.

• Repeals Arkansas Code § 20-27-1805, eliminating previous exemptions for certain establishments including hotels/motels with designated smoking rooms, tobacco retailers, and restaurants/bars meeting specific age restrictions.

• Allows privately owned businesses to voluntarily choose to follow State Board of Health rules regarding smoking prohibitions.

• Allows privately owned businesses to voluntarily permit Department of Health inspections and receive best practice recommendations under the subchapter.

• Maintains smoking bans in all publicly owned vehicles and enclosed areas, with specific prohibitions in common work areas, healthcare facilities, classrooms, elevators, restrooms, and other public spaces.