HB 523 Summary

• Repeals existing indoor clean air act sections (191.765-191.777) and establishes a new "Missouri Indoor Clean Air Act" with comprehensive statewide smoking prohibitions effective January 1, 2014.

• Prohibits smoking in all enclosed public places including bars, restaurants, health care facilities, educational facilities, gaming facilities, hotels (except up to 20% of rooms), shopping malls, and sports arenas without exception.

• Prohibits smoking in all enclosed workplaces including offices, conference rooms, hallways, elevators, cafeterias, and vehicles, with employers required to communicate the ban to existing and prospective employees.

• Restricts outdoor smoking to 15 feet from entrances and windows of smoke-free buildings, and prohibits smoking within 15 feet of playgrounds, public transportation stations, bleachers, and outdoor arenas.

• Establishes enforcement through the Department of Health and Senior Services with penalties including fines ($50-$500 for operators), license suspension/revocation, and allows private citizens to bring legal action; prohibits employer retaliation against employees exercising rights under the act.