On February 27, the Contra Costa County (CA) Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance to bring smokefree air to all multi-unit housing properties and hotel rooms, with a final vote expected on March 13. The ordinance would likely be implemented on July 1, 2018, with the smokefree policy being in full effect by July 1, 2019.
This ordinance will be a significant step to protect the health of people living in apartments, condominiums, and other multi-unit residences in unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. Once finalized, the county will join 41 other California municipalities with laws to require all units of all multi-unit housing be 100% smokefree.
Contra Costa County Tobacco Prevention Program prioritized educating the community and policymakers about the health harms of secondhand smoke exposure in multi-unit housing and the health and safety benefits of having smokefree living environments. ANR Foundation had the opportunity to give a presentation to the Contra Costa Tobacco Prevention Coalition on smokefree housing trends and messages. Representatives of multiple community organizations and health partners who are part of the coalition attended the Board of Supervisors meeting to share influential public comment and personal stories to highlight the need for smokefree housing.
If you are exposed to secondhand smoke in your home, we have many resources on making your home smokefree. The ANR Foundation has a list of similar laws and policies available.
