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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Joan Miles, JD, Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services, 111 North Sanders, Third Floor, Helena, MT 59604, 406-444-5622, jmiles@mt.gov

The 2005 Montana legislature passed House Bill 643 in April 2005. This resulted in the revised state law, the Montana Clean Indoor Act, which went into effect on October 1, 2005. The law prohibits tobacco use on all elementary and secondary public school property, and requires most public and workplaces to be smoke-free. Bars that meet specific criteria can apply for an exception to the law and allow smoking until October 2009. The Department developed and adopted administrative rules for the law and developed a protocol for enforcement at the local level. To ensure that communities and businesses are aware of the law, the Department conducted mass mailings to businesses across the state, and implemented an ongoing public awareness campaign. Additionally, community-based programs are working with businesses and community members to ensure awareness and compliance with the law. This presentation will review our experience and lessons learned regarding the education, implementation phases of the law, and the potential new challenges that public health may face in Montana through 2009. Data regarding Montanan's attitudes and compliance with the law will also be presented.

Learning Objectives:

• See session abstract

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No