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HB 361

Mississippi Smoke-Free Air Act of 2025; create.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bryant Clark

HB 361 would ban smoking in Mississippi's indoor public places and workplaces to reduce secondhand smoke exposure, but died in committee without floor consideration.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 361

Legislative bill overview

HB 361 would establish comprehensive smoke-free air protections across Mississippi by prohibiting smoking in indoor public places and workplaces. The bill aims to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke exposure in enclosed environments where people gather or work.

Why is this important

Secondhand smoke exposure causes approximately 41,000 premature deaths annually in the U.S. according to the CDC, and Mississippi currently lacks statewide smoke-free air legislation. Implementation would align Mississippi with 34 other states that have comprehensive smoke-free laws, potentially reducing healthcare costs and improving public health outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Business impact concerns: Restaurants, bars, and casinos may face operational costs and potential revenue losses, though research from other states shows mixed results
  • Personal freedom arguments: Opponents often frame smoke-free laws as government overreach into private business decisions and individual choice
  • Enforcement and compliance: Questions about implementation costs, who enforces violations, and penalty structures for non-compliance
  • Exemptions debate: Disagreement over which venues should be exempt (cigar bars, tribal gaming facilities, etc.) and whether exemptions undermine public health goals

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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