14 February 2008, 16:20
Ye. Suslov, one of the Bill Sponsors, considers that ‘the Bill (Reg.No.1171) aims to reduce the volume of sales, and hence consumption of low alcohol beverages in the country, and improve the health of its citizens´.
The Bill adds a new provision to the current Law to the effect that ‘low alcohol beverages are alcoholic beverages with 1.25% to 8.5% (by volume) ethyl alcohol content and extractive substances below or equal to 14.0 g/100 cm3 , manufactured from water/alcohol based compositions, using ingredients, semiproducts and preserving agents, saturated or unsaturated with carbon dioxide´.
The Bill contains provisions limiting the consumption of beer, alcohol and low alcohol beverages and tobacco products. Consumption of beer, alcohol and low alcohol beverages and tobacco product is prohibited (except in those places specially designated for this purpose) in health-care institutions, educational and training/teaching institutions, public transport (including international); cultural institutions, covered sports structures and venues of mass events; lifts and phone booths; children´s playgrounds; State Authority and Local Government buildings, and other public institutions.
The Document suggests that the owner or lessor of the facility bears responsibility for the suitable provision of places specially designated for smoking. Local Governments can designate non-smoking areas within their respective administrative territories.