California Renters May Be Forced to Go Smoke-free

[The Straight Story]

California Renters May Be Forced to Go Smoke-free
Written by Marcey Brightwell, Reporter


Lighting up in apartment units could become a thing of the past. Proposed legislation would make it easier for landlords to ban smoking in California rental units by clarifying state law.

Senate Bill 1598 is still in draft form, but backers say it will help protect renters from the dangers of secondhand smoke, which can infiltrate shared ventilation systems and outdoor common areas.

Opponents worry the measure will violate civil rights and allow landlords to discriminate against low-income and minority tenants.

A growing number of apartment complexes are already going smoke-free. The Vintage at Natomas Field complex prohibits tenants from smoking in their units or around the complex grounds. They are allowed to light up in secluded smoking areas.

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