CT SB00245

Repeals and replaces section 31-40q of the general statutes, effective October 1, 2010, to establish new smoking restrictions in workplaces.

Expands the definition of "employer" to include self-employed persons irrespective of whether they have employees, and adds definitions for "home" and clarifies "business facility."

Requires all employers to prohibit smoking in business facilities, with an exception allowing employers to designate one or more smoking rooms that meet strict ventilation and location requirements.

Mandates that employers providing smoking rooms must also provide sufficient nonsmoking break rooms for nonsmoking employees and ensure smoking rooms are located in non-work areas where employees are not required to enter during work duties.

Permits employers to designate their entire business facility as nonsmoking if they choose, and excludes employers' homes from the definition of business facility.