HUD Issues Final Smoke-Free Public Housing Rule

HUD released the final rule requiring public housing agencies (PHAs) to implement a smoke-free policy within 18 months. The final rule has only one change from the proposed rule (see Memo, 11/16/15), adding waterpipes (hookahs) to the list of prohibited products that include cigarettes, cigars, and pipes. PHAs must design and implement a policy prohibiting the use of prohibited tobacco products in all public housing living units and interior areas (including but not limited to hallways, rental and administrative offices, community centers, daycare centers, laundry centers, and similar structures), as well as at outdoor areas within 25 feet of public housing and administrative office buildings (collectively, referred to as “restricted areas”) in which public housing is located. Read more here.

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