Norfolk County Commission adopts smoking policy for Dedham complex consistent with state rules

The Norfolk County Commission voted Aug. 27 to adopt a smoking policy for the Dedham Complex that staff said aligns with state regulations and local public-health rules.

The vote matters because the policy governs smoking in and around county workplaces and public buildings, affecting employees, court users and visitors to the Dedham Complex.

County administration staff told the commission the policy was circulated for comment to unions and regular building users; no written union comments were returned by the stated deadline. Staff said the policy conforms to state requirements and local board-of-health standards. The memorandum presented to the commission cites "Chapter 270, section 22" and "105 CMR 660.1" as authorities for workplace smoking restrictions.

A commissioner moved to adopt the policy as outlined in the memo; the motion was seconded and approved unanimously. Staff said the policy would be posted and implemented promptly.

Ending: Commissioners directed staff to post the new smoking rules for the Dedham Complex and to notify building users and unions of the change.