Despite our assertion that billboards are the new cigarettes, countries are still banning smokes. The latest to jump on the trend is Niger; in July Kenya passed a sweeping anti-smoking law.
People caught lighting up in public places or on public transport can be fined anywhere from $10 to more than $2,000, and jail sentences are apparently also on the table. Businesses that let patrons smoke can have their licenses revoked.
The BBC reports that there may be a little bit of a de facto grace period for puffers in the country since the government has only now decided to start enforcing the ban, which was originally approved in 2006.
Related Stories:
· Niger Cabinet Passes Smoking Ban [BBC, via]
· New Smoking Ban in Kenya Cutting Loosie Sales [Jaunted]
· Smoking Bans coverage [Jaunted]
[Photo: robin.elaine]]]>