What's happening in the U.S. Territories and Commonwealths?

Publication Date: 2011-02-04

Progress on legislative activity for smokefree air has been happening in several of the U.S. Territories and Commonwealths.

American Samoa: On January 19, 2011, a new law went into effect for 100% restaurants in American Samoa. Governor Togiola Tulafono signed the bill in October 2010. This law is a good step forward for American Samoa, although smoking is still permitted in some bars, private offices, and private clubs.

Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI): In September 2009, CNMI took a major step forward for public health when a smokefree law for non-hospitality workplaces and restaurants went into effect, although the law exempts bars and casinos. Unfortunately, in January 2011, a bill to weaken parts of the law passed the House that would permit smoking in 80% of hotel and motel rooms. Efforts are underway by the coalition to speak out against this bill and protect the smokefree law so that CNMI and its employees and visitors can continue breathing smokefree air in many public places and workplaces.

U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI): On February 10, 2011, a strong law for 100% smokefree workplaces, restaurants, bars and gaming facilities will go into effect in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Governor John deJongh Jr. signed Bill 28-0191 in May 2010.