Restaurant owners speak out against Kansas smoking ban

Publication Date: 2008-02-14

• Author:JIM SULLINGER
• Publication:Kansas City (MO) Star

Bar and restaurant owners told a legislative panel Wednesday that a bill promoting smoking bans across the state would hurt their businesses.

They urged legislators to kill the measure, SB 493, and allow each business and the free market to dictate smoking policy.

Tom Conroy, owner of Conroy's Pub in Lawrence, said sales at his business declined more than 30 percent on many days since that city adopted a smoking ban.

"My total number of employees dropped from 27 to the current number of 13, thus eliminating 14 Lawrence jobs in my place alone," he said.

Conroy was among many opponents appearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Supporters testified Tuesday.