Pa Smoking Ban
On June 10, 2008, the Pennsylvania Senate has passed a bill that will ban smoking in most public places in Pennsylvania. It is expected to be signed by Governor Edward Rendell the end of the week.
Fast Facts
- Bill number: 246
- Passed Senate: 41-91
- Passed House 163-381
- Effective date: 90 days after Rendell signs bill
Exempt Venues
- Casinos outside Philadelphia
- Bars which have 20% or less revenue from Food sales
- Cigar bars
- Tobacco shops
- Private clubs that agree to allow smoking
- 25% of a hotel's rooms
- Private homes not used as a day-care center
- Private vehicles
- Long-term care facilities
- Drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities
- Mental-health services
- Specific outdoor areas at sports and recreation venues
Philadelphia Smoking Ban
Philadelphia was allowed to keep its smoking ban. This more stringent ban prevents smoking in casinos or within 20 feet of a building entrance.
Controversy
A group of Democratic senators initially voted the bill down because it did not allow any communities but Philadelphia to enact their own smoking bans. Alleghney County and Scranton each had their own antismoking ordinances prior to this bill. The Senate agreed to introduce new bills allowing the areas to enact their own smoking bans.
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