The town of North Manchester, Ind. has passed a comprehensive new smoking ban that snuffs out the use of tobacco and e-cigarettes in numerous places, expanding on the state’s existing prohibition on smoking in workplaces.
The North Manchester Smoke-Free Air Law of 2018 brings an end to smoking in retail tobacco stores, private clubs, bars, gambling facilities, public buildings, as well as within 15 feet of such places. Additionally, it bans smoking at outdoor work areas, town parks and other town-owned property, bus stops and other transportation centers, and the common areas of multifamily residential buildings.
A person who smokes in an area where it is prohibited will face a $50 fine, while an owner or employer who allows smoking in a prohibited place will face a first time fine of $100, which escalates to $200 for a second offense within a year and $500 for any subsequent offenses within that time period.
The changes go into effect in 30 days following its adoption. The proposal passed unanimously during its third reading at the town council’s Aug. 1 meeting.
North Manchester is located just over 100 miles north of Indianapolis and is home to approximately 6,000 residents.