Votes put smoking ban in the governor's hands

Publication Date: 2007-05-12

• Author:Mark Brunswick
• Publication:Minneapolis (MN) Star Tribune

Both houses of the Minnesota Legislature passed a historic statewide smoking ban, amid fierce and emotional debate Friday and today pitting health concerns against personal freedom and property rights.

The bill, which would take effect in October if signed into law, would prohibit smoking in bars and restaurants and bingo halls, and would make Minnesota the 20th state to prohibit smoking indoors.

Smoking would be permitted on outdoor patios, and local governments would be able to enact even stricter standards. Gov. Tim Pawlenty has said he would sign a ban.