France will implement a ban on smoking in outdoor areas frequented by children starting July 1, as announced by Health Minister Catherine Vautrin. The ban includes beaches, parks, and schools, while outdoor cafes will be exempt. Violators face a €135 fine. Despite the exemption for electronic cigarettes, Vautrin aims to limit nicotine levels. Smoking rates in France are at a record low, but tobacco-related illnesses still cause over 75,000 deaths annually. A significant majority of the population supports the ban. Teljes cikk (bbc.com europe)