Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 – How the Act Affects: Schools
The Basics
The Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 prohibits the smoking of tobacco, the use of electronic-cigarettes (e-cigarettes) to vape any substance, and the smoke of cannabis (medical and recreational) in enclosed workspaces and enclosed public spaces, as well as other designated places in Ontario, to protect workers and the public from second-hand smoke and vapour.
Smoking refers to the smoking or holding of lighted tobacco or cannabis (medical or recreational).
Vaping refers to inhaling or exhaling vapour from an electronic cigarette or holding an activated electronic cigarette, whether or not the vapour contains nicotine.
Public School and Private School Property
Smoking and vaping is not allowed in public and private schools, including the grounds associated with the school, and public areas within 20 metres of any point on the perimeter of the grounds of the school. Where a private school is not the only occupant of the premises, then the grounds designated for the school (e.g., a playground) and public areas within 20 metres of any point on the perimeter of those grounds are affected.
Penalties
Failing to comply with prohibition on smoking and vaping:
An individual who violates the prohibition on smoking and vaping in schools or on and around school grounds may be charged and if convicted, face a maximum fine of $1,000 (for a first offence) or $5,000 (for any further offence).
Please take a moment to speak with your son/daughter regarding the Smoke Free Ontario Act, 2017 and its impact in schools.