RSCNPF STEPS UP ENFORCEMENT OF PUBLIC SMOKING RESTRICTIONS TO SAFEGUARD PUBLIC HEALTH

Basseterre, St. Kitts, August 27, 2024 (SKNIS): The Royal Saint Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) will be increasing its enforcement of the restriction on smoking in public places.

Under Section three (3) of the Smoking (Designated Areas) Act, 2023, smoking outside of designated smoking areas is prohibited. Smoking is defined in the Act as the use of any lighted or heated device or pipe or any other lighted or heated cannabis or cannabis resin intended for inhalation, including electronic smoking devices, etc.

The RSCNPF emphasises that this measure is in place to protect general public health, particularly the health of asthmatics and persons allergic to smoke. The law mandates that any person found smoking in any public place shall receive a $500 ticket, and in default of payment shall be liable to perform up to twenty hours of community service; or in further, to imprisonment for 5 days.

Business operators who wish to have their establishments, or parts thereof, licenced as designated smoking areas are encouraged to apply to the Chief Medical Officer and comply with the legislated signage requirements. The law provides that business operators who allow smoking in their establishments without the requisite licensing, shall receive a $1,000 ticket.

In light of these provisions, the RSCNPF encourages all members of the community to adhere to these regulations to ensure the health of our citizens and residents, and uphold the standards of our society.

The law defines “public place” broadly to include any places or buildings accessible to the public, including bars, drinking places, restaurants and clubs, tourist establishments, hotels, schools and all other educational institutions, etc.

The RSCNPF remains committed to safeguarding the community and ensuring that all laws are upheld for the protection of its citizens.

-30-