For Immediate Release

Montana Launches Statewide Campaign to Celebrate Clean Air and Support Tobacco Cessation

mountains and trees with no smoking icons floating in the clouds
Photo courtesy of DPHHS.
  • May 21 2026

Contact: 

  • DPHHS: Jon Ebelt, Communications Director, (406) 444-0936, (406) 461-3757, jebelt@mt.gov

HELENA, MT — Following the historic expansion of the Montana Clean Indoor Air Act (MCIAA), the Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program (MTUPP) has launched a statewide educational campaign to promote smoke-free environments and provide resources to help residents quit nicotine.

Through June 7, patrons at 46 bars and restaurants across Montana will see new educational posters and beverage coasters. These materials celebrate the state’s commitment to clean indoor air while providing a direct link to free cessation services offered through Quit Now Montana.

Trees and mountains with no smoking icons in sky
A new Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program poster featured in bars and restaurants statewide highlights the expansion of the Clean Indoor Air Act.

(High Resolution Poster JPG)

The campaign follows the passage of Senate Bill 390, which closed a 20-year-old public health gap by adding e-cigarettes to the state’s clean air protections. Signed by Governor Gianforte on May 8, 2025, the law protects Montanans from e-cigarette aerosol in all indoor public places and workplaces.

“The expansion of the Clean Indoor Air Act reinforces healthy social norms,” said Nicole Aune, Section Supervisor of the Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Section. “By placing these resources in local establishments, we are celebrating our state’s commitment to clean air while offering a helping hand to those ready to start their quit journey.”

SB 390 updated the legal definition of “smoking” to explicitly include the use of an “electronic smoking device,” including e-cigarettes, dab rigs, and vape pens. Under the MCIAA, businesses are required to:

  • Prohibit Vaping: Treat e-cigarettes the same as commercial cigarettes in all enclosed public spaces.
  • Post Signage: Display clear signs at all public entrances stating that smoking is prohibited.

Compliance has been exceptionally high since the law took effect. As of May 2026, MTUPP has received only 18 complaints statewide, with just seven businesses found in violation—a testament to the cooperation of Montana’s business community.

“We want to extend a sincere thank you to the many Montana businesses that have proactively embraced these changes,” Aune added. “By adhering to the expanded Act, you are ensuring that every Montanan can enjoy our local establishments while breathing clean, safe air.”

To request free official signage or report violations, visit tobaccofree.mt.gov. For Montanans looking to quit tobacco or nicotine, free coaching and support are available through QuitNowMontana.com or by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

Tags: Public Health, News and Safety and Disease Prevention