PA Senate Votes for Smoking Ban

The State Senate has voted 41-9 to accept the conference committee report on the Clean Indoor Air Act, making Pennsylvania the 28th state to enact a comprehensive smoking ban that prohibits smoking in most public places and workplaces. The bill now goes to Governor Ed Rendell, who has advocated a smoking ban as a way to reduce health care costs, and plans to sign the bill. It would take effect 90 days after being signed into law, banning cigarette, cigar and pipe smoking in restaurants, office buildings, schools, sports arenas, theaters and bus and train stations.
A dozen exemptions would ensure that smoking can continue at some bars and taverns, portions of casino floors, private clubs and elsewhere.