Secondhand smoke is a proven health hazard. The DC Department of Health Functions Clarification Amendment Act of 2006 prohibits smoking in most public places. The law has been in effect since April 4, 2006. It is a violation of District law for any person to smoke in an area where it is prohibited. It is also a violation for an employer, owner, manager or person in authority to permit smoking in prohibited areas or failure to post “No Smoking” signs.