State Status
No Preemption
News Summary
Smoking ban clears Senate, on its way to final passage
Publication Date: 2007-05-11
- Author:Mark Brunswick
- Publication:Minneapolis Star Tribune
The bill, which permits outdoor smoking patios but few other exceptions, is headed to the House where a lively debate is expected.
Minnesota stood poised to join 19 other states that have enacted statewide smoking bans after the Senate passed a bill banning smoking at bars and restaurants today and the House was preparing to do the same, even as opponents were warning of stumbling blocks.
The bill, which would take effect in October, prohibits smoking in bars and restaurants and bingo halls. Local governments can enact stricter standards. Gov. Tim Pawlenty has said he would sign a ban.
The Senate approved the bill 43-21, with the DFL Iron Range delegation voting against it.