Nevadans: Say no to pot, raise minimum wage, restrict smoking

Publication Date: 2006-11-08

• Author:Sandra Chereb
• Publication:Las Vegas Sun

The dueling anti-smoking initiatives had different outcomes.

Polls showed early support for both anti-smoking measures slipping as Election Day approached, and proponents acknowledged voters seemed confused by similar ballot language.

Question 4, a business-backed initiative called the Responsibly Protect Nevadans from Second-Hand Smoke Act, would have imposed minimal restrictions on smoking in areas of bars and restaurants that allow children. It failed 52 percent to 48 percent.

Instead voters approved the Clean Indoor Air Act backed by public health groups. It bans smoking in any bars that serve meals, as well as in slot machine sections of grocery and convenience stores, video arcades, shopping malls, school grounds and day-care centers. Question 5, which still permits smoking in gambling areas of casinos, was approved 54 percent to 46 percent.