Russians Now Face Fines for Smoking in Some Public Places
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iStock/Thinkstock(MOSCOW) — New fines went into effect in Russia Friday for smoking in certain public places.
Lighting up near a train station, in an airport, or near a playground or school could now cost you between $15 and $90. Next year, the prohibition will be expanded to cafes and restaurants.
It’s all part of a new get-healthy campaign by the Russian government, recognizing Russia’s life expectancy is dangerously low and its population is shrinking. The government is even taking steps to make vodka more expensive, and a new proposal would limit alcohol in movies.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has promoted himself as the paragon of healthy living: he doesn’t smoke or drink. But in a country where about half of the population smokes — and few respect even basic traffic laws — many are skeptical.
As one person commented on Twitter, Russia might as well try banning snow.
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