Illinois Bans Indoor Use of E-Cigs in Public Spaces, with a Fine of $100

According to recent reports from Illinois Policy, starting January 1, 2024, the use of e-cigarettes indoors in public places will be prohibited in the state of Illinois. Violators of this ban will be subject to a fine of $100.

Earlier, state lawmakers revised the 2008 "Smoke-Free Act," which prohibited smoking in public places and also encompassed e-cigarettes. The term "public places" also includes private properties such as bars and restaurants.

According to the law, the initial fine is set at $100, with subsequent fines amounting to $250 each time. Similarly, if businesses violate the law, they will be fined $250 for the first offense, and $500 for the second offense. If there are any further violations within a year of the initial offense, a penalty of $2,500 will be imposed.

According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, as of March 2023, a total of 17 states have implemented bans on indoor e-cigarette consumption. In Illinois, prior to this, 30 cities had already prohibited the indoor use of e-cigarettes, but the new regulations have now extended the ban to encompass the entire state.

Governor J.B. Pritzker emphasized the potential public health benefits when he signed the law in June.

Citizens of Illinois have the right to enjoy public spaces without being subjected to secondhand exposure from e-cigarettes and other e-cigarette-related products, Illinois Governor Pritzker announced. "Now, e-cigarettes and vaping will be regulated under existing smoking laws to reduce air pollution and make Illinois a healthier and more accessible place," he stated.