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Update: Smoking Ban passes
posted at 2009-05-13 16:35 | Last modified 2009-05-13 16:36
State lawmakers have given final approval to ban smoking in North Carolina bars and restaurants. The ban would take effect January 2, 2010.
The final version of H2 is much less restrictive than the original measure, which would have banned smoking in all public places. But Davidson Democrat Hugh Holliman says it’s still a huge step for the state.
"I think this bill has come a long way. It’s had as much debate as any bill has ever had I guess in this body… certainly I think by removing workplaces it’s not the bill that we would like to have but I think maybe that’s an argument for a later date. "
Under the proposal, local health departments would - for the first time ever - have the power to enact more stringent smoking bans with their county commissioners’ approval. That's the part that gave opponents the most heartburn: conservatives argued it would open the door to further encroachment on property rights. But it wasn't enough to persuade the majority. The House voted 62-56 to concur.
Governor Bev Perdue's office was quick to release this response:
"Today is an important and historic day for North Carolina - a day to applaud Rep. Hugh Holliman and Sen. William Purcell for protecting the health of North Carolinians. I have vigorously supported efforts to reduce and eliminate smoking and this bill will help more North Carolina citizens avoid the dangers of secondhand smoke. "
I'm guessing this means she'll sign it.
More later...stay tuned.
