Spain is preparing to broaden its smoke-free zones with a forthcoming ban that will prohibit smoking and vaping in a variety of public and semi-public areas. The proposed legislation targets places such as school grounds, work vehicles (for example, delivery vans), outdoor recreational spaces, university campuses, sports venues, public swimming pools, open-air nightclubs and dance halls.
Spanish Health Minister Mónica García revealed that her department’s draft amendment to the current anti-smoking legislation encompasses these areas in addition to previously proposed restrictions, including outdoor seating at bars, cafés and restaurants, as well as shelters at public transport stops.
Before the reform can move forward, it must first receive approval from the cabinet and then be voted on in the Spanish Congress, where the minority coalition government will need to gain backing from other political parties to ensure its passage.
A key element of the proposal is the inclusion of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, which would be subject to the same public space limitations as traditional tobacco under the new rules.
The draft decree outlining these changes has already been submitted for review and public consultation within the European regulatory framework.
During an interview with Spanish radio network Cadena SER, García explained the rationale behind banning smoking on bar terraces: ‘We will prohibit smoking on terraces because it is a measure supported by scientific evidence and by a large majority of citizens, including many smokers.’
She continued, ‘It is time to be ambitious in the fight against tobacco use, one of the main threats to public health, which causes 30% of cancers.’
The minister expressed optimism about the draft law moving forward swiftly, emphasising that it forms part of Spain’s broader collaborative efforts with fellow EU countries through the council of health ministers.
According to the ministry, all proposed measures align with international health guidelines.
