Smoking ban shakes up restaurants

Publication Date: 2005-06-24

• Author:LEON STAFFORD
• Publication:Atlanta (GA) Journal-Constitution

Barring patrons under 18 no hassle for some; elsewhere, staff members fear lost income

The Vortex Bar & Grill is about to get back to its roots, thanks to the state's new smoking ban.

Beginning July 1, the restaurant's two locations will be open only to adults 21 and over so that its owners can continue to allow smoking as an option to customers.The Vortex Bar & Grill is about to get back to its roots, thanks to the state's new smoking ban...

The state law that goes into effect next Friday allows restaurants and bars to let customers light up as long as they are 18 or older and the business does not employ minors. The ban covers all government buildings, indoor places of employment and most businesses.

There are some exceptions. For example, both kids and smokers can be served at restaurants outfitted with outdoor patios or with smoke-removing ventilation