The Ministry of Health has prepared a new draft law on protection against damage caused by addictive substances. The aim of this new law is to further strengthen the protection of public health, especially in children and adolescents.
We could not wait to introducing a complete ban on smoking in other types of places or significant restrictions on the availability of alcohol to children and youth. The law also improves the legal framework leading to more effective enforcement of compliance.
"I'm glad we were able to develop a law that among other things will contribute to the further expansion of smoke-free environments and limiting the availability of tobacco products and alcoholic beverages. I believe that we can be eased through the negative effects of drugs, especially to children and youth, "said Leos Heger, Minister of Health. Prohibition of sale of tobacco products, but also the needs of tobacco and alcoholic beverages should include new vending machines or mobile shops. The law also allows for a comprehensive smoking ban in public as freely accessible indoor or all indoor food service establishments such as restaurants, bars, etc. Partial smoking ban will continue to apply in the case of indoor entertainment areas, where smoking will be allowed only in designated structurally separate areas, the Act introduces a new definition. "These designated areas will be completely banned to people under 18 years," said Deputy Minister Ferdinand Polak.
The law also tightens conditions for operators of restaurants, etc. relating to the sale of alcohol. They would have a new duty to ensure that in these places there is no consumption of alcoholic beverages by persons under 18 years or so in these areas do not stay young person apparently under the influence of alcohol. "For failure to ban the sale of alcoholic beverages or tobacco products to persons under 18 years of age the new operator could threaten a fine of up to CZK 1 million in case eg repeated violation of this obligation even higher, "said Deputy Minister Polak. The restaurants should be available at least one soft drink, which will be cheaper than the cheapest alcoholic beverage of the same volume. Occasional sale of alcohol other than spirits will still permitted in special cases such as the time of the Christmas markets and cultural events, the operator will have as at present to meet additional conditions stipulated by law.
Among other innovations, the law regulates, such as improving legislation intercepting service, which remains the health service or the improvement of legislation in the coordination and implementation of the national drug policy.
It should be added that the bill is in the initial stage of the legislative process .. In what form will eventually after a proper amendment procedure submitted to the government, it is difficult to say today ..
The law should provide for all jurisdictions to enter into force on 1 First 2014th
Should ...
Source: Ministry of Health tz