MOSCOW, June 1 (UPI) -- Strict new anti-smoking laws went into effect in Russia Saturday, banning cigarette advertising and smoking in nearly all public places.
Smoking is prohibited in public buildings, on public transportation, at hospitals, sports stadiums and in schools. A ban on smoking in restaurants and bars will go into effect June 1, 2014, RIA Novosti said.
In addition to the ban on all cigarette advertising, the law prohibits tobacco companies from sponsoring sporting events or holding promotional prize drawings.
Also going into effect next year, stores will not be allowed to display cigarettes and minimum prices will be set for a pack, which presently costs 40 rubles ($1.30).
Violators caught lighting up in public face a fine of 1,500 rubles ($48).
