France introduces a ban on smoking near children

France introduces a large-scale ban on smoking in public places with children

From July 1, 2025, a new strict ban on smoking in public places where children may be present will come into effect in France. This was officially announced by France's Minister of Labor, Health, Solidarity and Family Catherine Vautrin, opening a new chapter in the national fight against tobacco smoking, reports Euronews.

"A generation free from smoking is possible and may be starting now. Everywhere children are present, smoking must disappear. So no more cigarettes on beaches, in public parks and gardens, in sports facilities, at bus stops and around schools. The ban will also affect high schools, so that students don't smoke before classes", - emphasized Catherine Vautrin in an interview with the newspaper Ouest France.

The minister firmly stated that the freedom to smoke "ends where children's right to breathe clean air begins." Violation of the new law will result in a serious fine of 135 euros.

For now, café and bar terraces will remain an exception to the ban, however, according to the minister, this is a temporary measure: "I am not going to stop at anything in the future."

As for electronic cigarettes, they temporarily do not fall under the ban, but authorities plan to "reduce the permissible nicotine content" in these devices and limit the variety of flavors offered.