BERN, SWITZERLAND – The Swiss Federal Council is opposed to proposed stricter laws that would limit secondary smoke, it said Tuesday 14 August. Swiss voters will decide on the initiative when they go to the polls 23 September.
The cabinet argues that a federal law which has been in place since May 2010 is well accepted and is bearing fruit, with some studies showing fewer cases of some cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
The 2010 lawbans smoking in closed spaces that are open to the public or in areas where several people work. Hospitals, schools and public transport are non-smoking areas throughout the country. Restaurants are allowed some exceptions and smoking areas are also allowed, although staffed only by employees who have agreed in writing to work in these spaces.
Cantonal smoking laws must be in line with the federal regulations but beyond this they vary throughout the country.
