In 1992, a special subcommission, made up of representatives from the most important political parties, was appointed by Parliament to prepare acceptable tobacco control legislation. In the subsequent years until 1994, several cities introduced local laws limiting or banning smoking in public places. In 1993, the government introduced a partial ban on tobacco product advertising as part of an existing law on unfair competition. Immediately, the tobacco industry helped form a Coalition against Censorship, with the purpose of blocking this ban. In January 1996, Poland's newly elected President signed the act, which came into force in May 1996.
Work continues to strengthen various aspects of the act.
Nevertheless, the passage of this legislation and related regulations is a great success for Poland, and an example to the rest of the world. Although the introduction of legislation may come from a small group of individuals, it is essential that the proposed legislation attain broad support in order to reach fruition. The proposed legislation should take into account the country's specific health, economic, social, and legal situation. The legislation should take into account WHO recommendations for comprehensive tobacco control. Rather than battling with the tobacco industry, the primary aim of the legislation should be to provide protection to young people and others from tobacco products and tobacco smoke, to limit the health effects of tobacco use, and to promote a healthy lifestyle, especially among youth.