Why Smoking in Illinois Will Look Different Thanks to New Law

While you were out celebrating the new year, the state of Illinois was welcoming in a new law to curb smoking in public places.

New Illinois Smoking Law

Illinois rolled out several laws with hopes of benefitting public health on Jan. 1. One of the most notable to go in effect takes aim at those who vape in public.

E-cigarettes weren't a thing when the state enacted an indoor smoking ban in 2018 under the Smoke Free Act. That's no longer the case.

According to the Illinois Department of Health, the law says "such devices can no longer be used in indoor public spaces or within 15 feet of a public entrance."

"E-cigarettes contain nicotine and other chemicals which can be harmful to both those who use them and those who are exposed to them," IDPH director Dr. Sameer Vohra said in a released statement. "Just like smoking, vaping can lead to lung damage and nicotine addiction."

What Non-Smokers Should Know About The New Law

Inevitably, there will still be bars that say nothing to those who use e-cigarettes indoors. That was the case for some establishments who dismissed the smoking ban when it was introduced in 2008.

Thankfully, there is an easy way to address the situation without speaking to a manager or confronting the smoker on your own.

The Illinois Department of Health has set-up a hotline and website to submit complaints about those violating the Smoke Free Illinois Act. Anyone can call 866-973-4646 or visit the department's website to file a complaint.

The submissions are then sent off to local law enforcement to address the issue. It is not required to give your name and contact info when filing a complaint.