Smoking banned at all public housing in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA -- The Philadelphia Housing Authority has adopted a universal smoking ban that affects 80,000 residents.

The policy adopted Thursday takes effect Aug. 5 and follows similar moves around the country.

Officials in Philadelphia say a poll shows that about one-third of residents smoke or live with a smoker while 55 percent support a smoking ban.

Vice chairman Herbert Wetzel tells The Philadelphia Inquirer that officials and residents worked together for months on the new policy.

The plan bans smoking both inside homes and on public-housing property except in designated outdoor areas.

Violations in existing buildings will be asked to attend counseling.

However, leaseholders could face eviction from new buildings after a fourth violation.