Send to Kindle
Bulgaria’s crack-down on smokers date back to 2005, when a partial smoking ban was introduced only to be widely ignored. Photo by Sofia Photo Agency
Bulgaria's MPs are allegedly set to go for a "liberalized" version of the much anticipated full smoking ban.
The draft bill that bans smoking in closed public spaces is yet to pass first reading, but lawmakers are already considering softening it, according to the Standart daily.
MPs from the ruling centrist-right GERB have been quoted saying that the bill will most likely not be passed the way it is. Smoking will be reportedly allowed in night clubs after 10 pm.
There is no clear definition of night clubs and some restaurants may potentially also end up as smoker-friendly after 10 pm.
Worried restaurant, bar and hotel owners are said have lobbied with MPs from both GERB and the oppositional parties in order to achieve a more "relaxed" smoking ban that would not harm their businesses.
Bulgaria's cabinet has already issued an official proposal to introduce a full smoking ban for closed public areas on June 1, 2012.
Such a measure was to be enforced in 2010, but was postponed by the government with the argument that it might harm the country's tourism.
According to the latest data, approximately 39% of Bulgarians are smokers. Some 60% are said to be in favor of the introduction of a full smoking ban in closed public spaces.
Bulgaria’s crack-down on smokers date back to 2005, when a partial smoking ban was introduced only to be widely ignored.
We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!
In response to the recent deaths of two newborns due to whooping cough, the Ministry of Health in Bulgaria has implemented measures to curb the spread of the disease
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Water, has enacted a comprehensive ban on fishing activities
The decision by the US Congress to greenlight a law that could potentially spell the end of TikTok's presence in the United States has sparked intense reactions from various quarters
To address increased domestic demand and facilitate refinery maintenance, Russia has announced a six-month ban on gasoline exports starting from March 1
In a bold move aimed at safeguarding national security, Bulgaria’s State Agency “National Security” (SANS) has imposed a strict entry ban on two individuals suspected of espionage on behalf of the Foreign Intelligence Service of the Russian Federation
According to a sociological study by Market Links from 2023, just over two-thirds of Bulgarian citizens believe that Bulgaria should support the gradual cessation of industrial farming in cages in the EU, and more than half would vote for a politician who
In response to the recent deaths of two newborns due to whooping cough, the Ministry of Health in Bulgaria has implemented measures to curb the spread of the disease
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning regarding the spread of bird flu (H5N1) to various species, including humans, expressing deep concern over its impact and potential consequences
Data from a recent global poll conducted by the world association "Gallup International" represent the diverse perceptions surrounding the threat posed by the coronavirus pandemic
The National Center for Infectious and Parasitic Diseases in Bulgaria has confirmed the country's first case of measles, sparking concerns about potential outbreaks.
While assurances of salary boosts for nurses employed in kindergartens and nurseries have been made recently, the fundamental challenges endure, plunging the sector into a precarious situation
A new report of a gas leak in Karnobat has sparked concern among residents and authorities, as emergency services rush to address the situation
UN Happiness Report: Bulgaria's Astonishing Leap in Rankings
Bulgaria: 3 Regions With Lowest Life Expectancy - EU Report 2022
